# The Blue Door & More

> The life behind and outside our blue front door.


## Posts

- [DIY Christmas Fence](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-christmas-fence/): When you dream of decorating your front porch with swag garland but you have nowhere to swag it, you build a fence.  Or at least that’s what we did!
- [Gift Guide for the Essential Oil Lover](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/gift-guide-for-the-essential-oil-lover/): I’m not new to buying gifts for an essential oil lover.  With essential oils becoming more and more popular, chances are you know someone who this gift guide would be perfect for!
- [DIY Inexpensive Cloth Napkins](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-inexpensive-cloth-napkins/): I don’t know about you, but the biggest indicator for a special meal to me is table linens.  Particularly cloth napkins.  They also are the easiest thing to add to a table for the holidays.  Table cloths need ironing, and are big and slide around.  And centerpieces are nice but they take up space where the food needs to go!  But you add some cloth napkins and all of a sudden it feels like your dining at the Plaza.  I really don’t host enough to justify the cost of some cloth napkins, so naturally I made my own for just a […]
- [Why You Should Donate Feminine Products](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/why-you-should-donate-feminine-products/): Yes, the title of this post is a little different from my various DIYs and decorating posts.  But it’s one that I am extremely passionate about.  Before I rattle off a million reasons why you should donate feminine products, let me give a little background.
- [Penelope Blue Series by Tamara Morgan](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/penelope-blue-series-by-tamara-morgan/):   The ultimate rom-com meets the ultimate heist.  Think The Proposal meets Ocean’s 8 (guess this is also a nod to Sandra Bullock’s wide variety of talent).  The series consists of three can’t-put-down books: Stealing Mr. Right, Saving Mr. Perfect, and Seeking Mr. Wrong.  The main character, Penelope Blue, is a jewel thief.  And her husband is in the FBI.
- [4 Ingredient Crockpot Fajitas](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/4-ingredient-crockpot-fajitas/): I promised this 4 ingredient crockpot fajitas recipe back in August when I shared how I freeze peppers and onions.  This is by far the easiest meal I probably have ever made.  Once you make it, it will be in regular rotation I’m sure!  It’s 4 ingredients and the crockpot does all the work.  The only thing better would be if the crockpot also made margaritas.  But I don’t seem to have that feature on mine.
- [Our 3 Year Anniversary](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/our-3-year-anniversary/): Three years ago today I said “I do” to the most amazing man I’ve ever met.  I promise I’ll try not to be that mushy through this whole post! Since I haven’t shared a ton about us and our relationship, I thought it would be fun to reminisce with some random facts.
- [Simple Fall Decor](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/simple-fall-decor/): I’m not sure Mother Nature knows it’s finally fall.  We seem to be rainy in the 70s or rainy in the 40s.  Where’s the sunny mid-50s?  And all these drastic temperature changes have given me a cold.  Or maybe it’s stress.  Anyway, while I’ve been struggling to breathe, I did a little fall decorating.  Nothing fancy, just some simple fall decor for our fireplace and dining table.
- [DIY Woven Two-Toned Chain Bracelet](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-woven-two-toned-chain-bracelet/): Sometime over the summer my mom expressed interest in a two toned bracelet.  Something I was interested in making!  I didn’t want to just swap a silver strand for a gold one on the braided chain bracelet I made earlier this year.  We checked out different chains and decided to weave a gold snake chain through a double chain.
- [DIY Jewelry Tray](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-jewelry-tray/): Last week was my mom’s birthday and she and my dad came to visit.  We decided to have a craft day on Saturday and it was so fun!  We each had our own projects to work on but it was nice to just visit and have some creative outlets.  I had had this DIY jewelry tray idea for awhile and it was the perfect short little project to work on while visiting with my parents.  AKA, it was super easy and didn’t take hardly any work!
- [Shelving Cubes and Wedding Photos](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/shelving-cubes-wedding-photos/): I did not expect to MIA on here for the past three weeks!  Three weeks ago we had a 500 year flood hit our area.  It broke all the previous flood records set 10 years ago.  Our house is high up on the ridge and stayed dry but so many people we know lost a lot, some lost everything.  Then exactly 7 days later, a 100 year flood came and caused more damage.  During that same week, our modem got hit by lightening and we found ourselves dry but without internet.  I know, first world problem at its finest.  Anyway, between […]
- [How to Freeze Bell Peppers & Onions for Fajitas](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-to-freeze-bell-peppers-onions-for-fajitas/): Landon would eat Mexican every night of the week if he could.  I need a little more variety but definitely can handle it a few times a week.  We’re big on fajitas and tacos mostly.  I have a great fajita recipe I’ll share some day but for now, I’m showing you how easy it is to stock up on the bell peppers and onions now (hello garden and/or farmers market!) to enjoy later this winter.
- [Simple Things to Make Your Bathroom Feel Fancy](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/simple-things-make-bathroom-feel-fancy/): One of the first little DIY projects I did in our house that made a big impact was in our master bathroom.  It was a couple months after we had moved in – long before I started this blog.  Since it’s something we see and use every day, I thought it was time to actually share it.  Read on for some little ways to make your own bathroom feel fancy!
- [3 Ingredient Versatile Meatballs](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/3-ingredient-versatile-meatballs/): I’ve mentioned before that I have been struggling with iron issues for the past couple years.  During this timeframe, a lot of attention has been given to freezer meals and meal prepping.  Since red meat is the most easily absorbed iron-rich food, I decided I needed more options than burgers and tacos all the time.  (To my dad’s disappointment, I did not grow up to be a steak and potato kind of girl.)  Sometime last year I decided to try and make meatballs.  Just simple, plain meatballs to freeze that could be dressed up any which way.  Since then, I have […]
- [DIY Potato Bead Keychain](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/din-potato-bead-keychain/): Did you ever make potato beads as a kid?  I remember waiting so patiently for the potato beads to dry to make something out of them.  Recently I had the urge to see if potato beads could work in adulthood too.  I also was in need of a keychain.  I have the worst luck with purchased keychains and the one from the dealer was going to break off any day so naturally I decided to make a potato bead keychain!
- [A Refreshing Summer Cocktail: The Landonator](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/a-refreshing-summer-cocktail/): Red wine is to winter as refreshing cocktails are to summer.  They quench your thirst, keep you cool, and can be so gosh darn delicious.  This grapefruit drink is no exception.  Plus, it’s easy to make and only requires 3 ingredients.  It’s like a simple mix drink but with a slight upgrade.
- [New Things I'm Loving to Beat the Heat](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/new-things-im-loving-beat-the-heat/): It’s crazy to think July is halfway over!  Which means summer is halfway over but there’s still plenty of warm weather left.  While I’m more of a cold weather kind of gal, I have found a few things to help beat the heat.
- [A Cozy Front Porch](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/cozy-front-porch/): Full weeks after short holiday weeks are always a bit rough.  Luckily, this week has been going by pretty fast for me.  I feel like the weekend will be here again before we know it – which is pretty great.  And you can find me chillin on our front porch!
- [Simple Pearl Drop Earrings DIY](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/simple-pearl-drop-earrings-diy/): Years ago I had made some simple pearl drop earrings.  The pearl beads weren’t real and over the past month I noticed the finish wearing off.  Since they were so easy to make, I got some more pearl beads and made another pair.  These literally take only a few minutes to make and are great for jewelry making newbies.  They’re such an elegant addition to any outfit and could also make a great gift!
- [DIY Peanut Jar to Change Jar](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-change-jar/): Well, last week I made a hat into a wreath.  So this week’s repurpose project was a peanut jar to change jar.  We have been needing a change jar for quite some time and I couldn’t find any jars I liked.  I wanted glass but had heard of some breaking so that didn’t seem like a good idea.  Then Landon finished some peanuts and I thought I could make the peanut jar pretty to hold our change.
- [Summer Hat Wreath](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/summer-hat-wreath/): Girl has straw hat.  Straw hat gets deformed.  Girl reshapes hat and turns it into décor for her blue front door. Enter the Summer Hat Wreath.
- [We Got a Pet... Vacuum - And It Changed Our Life](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/robot-vacuum/): I think we all would agree that as we get older we learn how valuable our time is.  After spending a good portion of both 2016 and 2017 with little to no energy, I’ve come to realize even more how precious time is.  I don’t want our evenings at home or our free weekends to be spent doing chores the whole time.  When I have bursts of energy, I want us to be able to do something and have fun!  This was a huge struggle trying to do everything ourselves, so sometimes you have to ask for help or outsource.  Enter […]
- [How to Remove Chapstick Stains](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/stain-removal/): I didn’t think I’d post so much about laundry but when you feel like you conquered the Mount Everest of stains, you have to share in hopes of helping someone else.  I’ll be honest, I’m not much of a stain person – I just don’t get messy.  But when you’re married to a preschool teacher, stains happen.  Thank goodness for Crayola washable markers but sometimes a kid gets ahold of a pen.  A couple years ago I mastered how to remove pen ink from clothes that have been washed and dried.  So when a tube of cherry chapstick decided to stain […]
- [Four Kitchen Features We Love](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/four-kitchen-features/): Three years ago this month we broke ground and started the process of building our house.  As I’ve mentioned before, Landon general contracted for us with no prior experience.  We learned a lot on our own!  I’ve never really gone into the design and construction of our house before but we have so much knowledge I’d like to start sharing.  First up, design features in the kitchen.  Below are the four features I am so happy we put into our kitchen design.  The best part?  That these features can be added to an existing kitchen right now with minimal expense and […]
- [My Non-Toxic Laundry Routine](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/my-non-toxic-laundry-routine/): What’s something we all have that never goes away?  Laundry!  You might be able to wash everything in the hamper, but you can’t wash what’s on your back at the same time.  You probably have your routine down path: well-known laundry detergent brand, fabric softener, dryer sheets.  Wash, dry, fold, repeat.  But have you checked the products you use to clean your family’s clothes that they wear every day?
- [A Rug That Makes All The Difference](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/dining-room-rug/): Up until a few months ago, I always thought dining room rugs were ridiculous.  Pretty to look at but completely impractical – and we don’t have any kids or pets.  But I’ve felt that something was missing from our dining area.  We have a more balanced mix of wood, black, and teal in our great room except for this area.  It was wood, on top of wood, on top of wood.  Wood floor, wood table, wood chairs, and a lighter wood ceiling.  For those who have an open concept without wall to wall carpeting in any part, you will understand how […]
- [Versatile Spanish Rice](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/versatile-spanish-rice/): When I was in college and the first couple years living on my own, my idea of a side dish was some lettuce or baby carrots. The first recipe for a side dish I ever attempted was taken out of a Taste of Home cookbook from my mom, circa 1998. I needed a side for salsa chicken (literally salsa put on a chicken breast and baked until done) and this Spanish rice fit the bill.  I’m pretty sure it was the first thing I ever cooked for Landon when we were dating too.
- [April Life Updates](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/april-life-updates/): Spring is finally here!  I can’t believe we had a blizzard last week and then yesterday got into the 70s.  Not complaining!  I literally went from boots to sandals.  Feels so good!  We’ve had a pretty busy month so I thought I’d just tell you all about it this week.  
- [When You Want to Golf but it Snows](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/when-you-want-to-golf-but-it-snows/): We’ve been itching to golf since we first got a tase of 50 degree weather in March.  But Mother Nature seems to have other plans.  Plans that include a foot of snow on April 18th.  A few days after ice and snow over the weekend.  ?  Hissy fit much?  Anyway, what do you do when it’s winter outside and you want to golf?  Bring the golf inside!
- [A Fancy Tiled Fireplace](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/a-fancy-tiled-fireplace/): It seems like forever ago when we got our mantle hung up above our fireplace.  In that post’s pictures, we had a tile square sample that someday we would tile the fireplace with.  And that someday has arrived! ??  It only took a few hours of our Saturday to tile the fireplace but it really makes the room feel so much more complete.  Seriously.  Looking at the before pictures makes me wonder how I lived with it that way for so long!
- [Set Yourself Up For Success](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/set-yourself-up-for-success/): In the beginning of March I took a training at work called The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.  The training was made to go with the book of the same name written by Stephen R. Covey.  The first three habits focus on more independent victories.  The next three focus on public victories and being effective with others.  It was the 7th habit was what hit me hard.  It’s called Sharpen the Saw and it circled around all the other habits.
- [How to Prevent Drooping Earring Syndrome](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-to-prevent-drooping-earring-syndrome/): I’ve never been a huge fan of stud earrings.  Part of the reason is because they are either so tiny that they aren’t noticeable, or they give you drooping earring syndrome.  You know drooping earring syndrome? Maybe you’ve seen it on your grandma, or her friends, or the blue haired gals at church.  They wear big stud earrings and gravity pulls them down at an awkward angle.  Well, last week I caught part of an infomercial that had a solution to drooping earring syndrome.  And my life has now been changed forever.
- [Laundry Room Plans](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/laundry-room-plans/): I did it!  I finally got our laundry room plans drawn up for our Amish friend to build!  If you remember, this was on my to-do list last July.  Better late than never!  It actually was probably the most invigorating time drawing up these plans.  I really do enjoy this stuff.  ?
- [Wool Dryer Balls](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/wool-dryer-balls/): I’ve shared a lot of natural, chemical free solutions over the past year.  Things like eyeliner, makeup remover, hand soap, body wash, laundry detergent, and natural allergy relief. But the first change I ever made to eliminate chemicals was getting rid of dryer sheets and using wool dryer balls instead.   I made my first set 2 years ago and have loved them since day one.  Call it the gateway drug to natural, chemical free living, but wool dryer balls are the easiest switch you can do.  And they are easy to make!
- [Glam Bathroom Decor](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/glam-bathroom-decor/): Remember when I shared the wall decor I made for our master bath last year?  Well, ever since then I have been thinking of what to do with our other bathroom.  So many ideas have entered my mind since then but nothing felt right.  Until I was in the dollar section at Target.  We had had the sequin shower curtain since we moved in and finding this little diamond tray at Target put me on the glam decor track.
- [Winter Getaway and Books I'm Reading](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/winter-getaway-and-books/): What’s better than a beach vacation in the middle of winter?  Nothing.  But second best is a winter vacation up north. So I thought I’d take a break from packing to tell you about what I am looking forward to.  Tomorrow morning Landon, his parents, and myself are heading on a 3.5 hour voyage up north to a friend’s cabin on a lake.  After working long days and weekends the past couple weeks, I am so excited to have a couple days off!
- [DIY Laundry Detergent](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-laundry-detergent/): I have an irrational fear of either running out of toilet paper or laundry detergent.  I have never actually run out of either, hence why it is irrational.  But I actually hate buying laundry detergent.  Our options are slim in this little town and I just don’t trust that they are safe and good at, well, laundering.  Luckily, my mother-in-law made a DIY laundry detergent and let me try some.  I am hooked.  Bonus:  make it once and have detergent for a whole year!
- [A Valentine Date Night](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/valentine-date-night/): Happy Valentines Day, lovelies!  Normally I post on Wednesday nights but since it’s Valentine’s Day this week, I’m writing on Tuesday.  While watching the Olympics.  And drinking wine.  And did you just see Shaun White kill it on his first half pipe run?  Amazing!  But I am getting a little off topic, but not really because Olympics are gold. ?? ?
- [DIY Braided Chain Bracelet](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-braided-chain-bracelet/): I can’t believe I’ve had this blog for a year now and have never shared any DIY jewelry.  In high school and college I took multiple classes on jewelry making.  I did a lot of lost wax casting as well as soldering.  But until I can convince someone to convert our shed into a studio with a gas line for a blow torch, I’ll just stick to simpler jewelry DIYs these days.  Like this DIY braided chain bracelet.  I’ve been in need of a nice silver, every day bracelet so I made one.
- [DIY Valentine's Day Wreath](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-valentines-day-wreath/): Oh Valentine’s Day.  V-Day.  Hallmark holiday.  Whatever you want to call it.  It’s not a holiday I normally acknowledge much.  I mean, I’d rather show love every other day than just one day a year.  And I’ve never been a fan of the colors pink and red.  But this year I felt like brightening up our front door from the snowflake wreath (that clearly has not brought us enough snow to snowshoe).  So I made the easiest, least expensive red and pink Valentine’s Day wreath and ironically, I love it. ❤️
- [Easy Chili in a Bread Bowl](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/easy-chili-bread-bowl/): Chili.  Winter’s comfort food.  I tend to get excited every September when we are on the verge of temperatures dropping.  It means I am only a month away from chili!  I usually make this chili at least once a month between October and March.  It’s incredibly easy in the crockpot and so delicious.  Landon has recently gotten hooked on bread bowls from Panera and my mom found the easiest way to make them at home!  This month I stepped up my chili game and put it in a bread bowl.  Carbo-load and comfort food together.  It’s a match made in heaven.
- [Bill Payment Tracker](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/bill-payment-tracker/): Bills, bills, bills.  Anyone else brought back to 1999 and the Destiny’s Child song?  Just me?  As usual.  Anyway, this post is less to do about Beyonce, Kelly, and Michelle, and a whole lot more about not getting late fees.  Back when I was young and single, I had like 3 bills to pay a month.  But when one marries and becomes a home owner, bills tend to multiply.  A lot.  Enter a bill payment tracker.
- [Update on Mid-Year Resolutions](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/update-mid-year-resolutions/): While everyone else is making (and possibly already breaking) their New Year’s resolutions, I figured I should check in on my mid-year resolutions I made back in July.  Some I accomplished flawlessly, some were accomplished but not to the extent I had in mind, and there are three I did not do.  Such is life.  Let’s see how I did…
- [2018 Be Kind To Me - A Recap of 2017](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/2018-kind-recap-2017/): I had so much enthusiasm for 2017.  The plan for January was to train in my replacement so in February I could start my new position within the same company.  I was so excited and still am completely in love with my job.  Health-wise, I started the year feeling better than I had in a long time.  At that point, I had been taking liquid gold (liquid iron supplement) for 5 months and was actually feeling like a somewhat functioning adult.  I also was making plans and working on setting up this blog.
- [Easy Christmas Gifts and Edible Coal](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/easy-christmas-gifts-edible-coal/): At work we have a Secret Santa gift exchange.  It is fun to partake in, but it also means more gifts to buy.  Which then potentially causes more holiday stress.  But I was able to minimize the stress with some clever and easy Christmas gifts.  I also have found the most amazing recipe for making edible coal – seriously so good!  And I made some cute little Christmas themed brownies that could not have been any easier. ?
- [DIY Glass Etching Gifts](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-glass-etching-gifts/): I’m a practical gift giver.  I follow a list and almost always give what is on the list.  So for non-list type situations, I struggle.  Big time.  But I also like being crafty, and that can make the most drab practical gifts incredibly cute and personable.  There are two girls from my old department that I am still close with and we exchange gifts.  I decide to do a little DIY glass etching as part of their gifts.  If you’ve never done glass etching before, it is the fastest and easiest DIY ever.  I swear.
- [Living Room Christmas Decorations](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/living-room-christmas-decorations/): ? It’s the most wonderful time of the year! ?  We have our Christmas tree up!  And I finally sewed our Christmas stockings!  Exciting times here in our house.  I’ve gone pretty simple this year with our living room Christmas decorations but I think it still captures the holiday spirit.  ?
- [DIY Foam Hand Soap - Holiday Scents](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-foam-hand-soap-holiday-scents/): Hand soap has caused a lot of distress in our household.  I wanted a clean, chemical free soap and Landon didn’t like how they felt.  I tried castile soap before and it was too “watery.”  So I started buying the all natural brands.  Method, Meyers, Honest Company, etc.  But my wallet didn’t like those.  Turns out, I just needed to make the same castile soap before but put it in a foaming dispenser.  Eureka!  We have clean and happy hands!
- [DIY Snowflake Wreath](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-snowflake-wreath/): After seeing social media this past month, I really should have no reservations for hanging this DIY snowflake wreath on my door the day before Thanksgiving.  Apparently, I’m a month behind on the Christmas decor!
- [Things I'm Currently Loving](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/things-im-currently-loving/): Orange and cinnamon essential oils Oh. Em. Gee.  If this dynamic duo doesn’t smell like warm, comforting fall to you then I don’t know what will.  I’m not sure what made me decide to mix them but it is the best!  We got this little Michigan Scentsy plug-in as a wedding gift.  While I loved the smell we received, whenever it was on it bothered Landon’s allergies.  So I poured a little water and few drops of each essential oil and viola!  A fall smelling home in no time.  The water does evaporate so depending on how long I have it […]
- [DIY Body Wash](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-body-wash/): I love showers.  Let me just proclaim that to all the internet.  I also love thunderstorms.  They are similar if you think about it.  One cleans your car and the other cleans you.  ? Speaking of cleaning, I have made my own makeup remover but what about the rest of the body?  I made my own DIY  body wash a few months ago and decided I really liked it.  And since I was running low, I made some more with a tutorial!
- [Getting Older](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/getting-older/): This past Friday I celebrated my 28th birthday.  I took the day off from work and went shopping with my mother-in-law.  On Saturday Landon and I went out for lunch.  It was a nice little low key weekend and I loved that it was 3 days! 
- [A Pumpkin Pail DIY Production](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/a-pumpkin-pail-diy-production/): I can hardly believe it’s October, let alone the end of it!  We have been in the 70’s all last week and then yesterday we had a wind advisory with a high of 43.  They are forecasting snow by the end of the week! ☃️ One thing I have found challenging with decorating a new house that is also your first house:  you just don’t have stuff to decorate with.  We are definitely making progress but that’s with every day décor.  The holidays bring a whole other level to the challenge.  I still wanted our house to look like fall even if […]
- [Our 2nd Anniversary](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/our-2nd-anniversary/): Yesterday marked two years since Landon and I said “I do.”  To celebrate our wedding anniversary, I decided to recap some moments in our relationship that stand out to me.   Without further ado…
- [Stair Wall Art](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/stair-wall-art/): The end of this month will mark two years in our house!  And for nearly two years, I have stared at this giant wall above our basement stairs.  We have contemplated many ideas but never quite found the right fit.  Whatever we found, we wanted to keep for a long time.  Mostly because putting a ladder on stairs is rather scary and not the easiest task.
- [Cubicle Decor](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/cubicle-decor/): For only being at my current company for two and half years, I have definitely moved cubicles a lot.  The space I have currently been occupying since May has a ton more wall space than the others.  So much wall space, that it is terribly boring to see every day.  I did a little cubicle decor and plan to do more but here’s what I have done so far! Honeycomb wall of motivation
- [Dairy Free Crockpot Lasagna](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/dairy-free-crockpot-lasagna/): Life has been a total nutcase lately!  We are starting the year end process and budgeting at work and holy cow is it busy!  Add that to being summoned for jury duty and my head has been spinning for days.  Luckily I only spent 3 hours at the courthouse this morning and never was selected for the jury. ? This past weekend was also insanely hot.  Both Friday and Saturday we were in heat advisories.  In September!  We should be 60 degrees tops this time of year, not in the 90s.  I cannot wait for snow!  There, I said it. ❄️ Anyway, due […]
- [Natural Allergy Relief](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/natural-allergy-relief/): Seasonal allergies.  You either have them yourself or know someone who does.  Am I right?  Of course I am!
- [DIY Hand Painted Wood Sign](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-hand-painted-wood-sign/): As obsessed as I am with Joanna Gaines, Magnolia Markets, and Fixer Upper, I actually haven’t known about this world for very long.  See, I haven’t had cable since i was a sophomore in college.  So HGTV was a distant channel I remembered watching Decorating Cents with my mom back in the day.  But this time last year, we signed up for Sling TV.  And in January I saw my first Fixer Upper episode.  It was an obsession at first watch. After bonding over the love of the show with a coworker, I found out Magnolia Market existed.  And it existed […]
- [The Matchmaker Series by Elise Sax](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/matchmaker-series-elise-sax/): September!  It is finally here!  Why is it finally here you ask?  Well, there are lots of things but the one I’m most excited for is the release of a new book!  Around the end of June I read An Affair to Dismember by Elise Sax and instantly became hooked.  My Barnes & Noble emails confirm I read through the 6 books averaging 3 days a piece.  Seeing as most good books take me at least twice that should tell you something.  On July 19th I pre-ordered the 7th book in the Matchmaker series and it finally gets released this Friday! ? […]
- [Life Lately](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/life-lately/): I had high hopes to show you my decorated cubicle this week but life just got a little too busy.  What can you do? Anyway, this past Sunday was my companies annual golf outing.  It was a cloudy day but the weather was actually nice.  We won our annual second place (someday maybe we’ll beat Josh ??).  After contributing a few of drives, I somehow managed to pop one on the hole for women’s shortest drive.  It then hit the golf cart path and bounce backwards, securing my award. ?  I now have won women’s longest and women’s shortest both once in my […]
- [FitBit Tips, Tricks, & Money](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/fitbit-tips-tricks-money/): Is it just me or does nearly everyone have some sort of activity tracker these days?  About a year ago, I won a FitBit Alta.  It was really exciting since I had toyed with the idea of purchasing one myself.  My place of employment has a walking program/competition every summer.  We break out into teams of 6 and see which team has the most steps at the end of 12 weeks.  The first two years, I used those old school pedometers that are about $10.  I’ve had my FitBit for almost a full year and it was so nice to have […]
- [Pantry Makeover](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/pantry-makeover/): The pantry.  Where 5% of its residents are used and rotated on a regular basis and the other 95% sit there only to expire or get pulled out a few times a year for use.  At least that’s how I view my pantry.  Correction: used to view it. Two years ago we were in the final stretch on completing the building of our house.  We (okay, Landon) general contracted it ourselves.  For the most part, we had two handymen doing all the framing and finishing touches on the inside.  Those finishing touches included closets with shelves and/or rods.  Our floor plan […]
- [Green Chef Review](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/green-chef-review/): This past weekend we tried the meal kit delivery service Green Chef.  I had been accumulating a list of meal kit providers and am curious to try most of them.  It seems the standard is they send you a box with just enough ingredients to make three meals that they also provide recipes for.  Recipes should take around 30 minutes to make.  This is a great incentive for people on the go or with children.  Each company has it’s own differences and pricing structure. Green Chef is all organic and has 6 different dietary options to choose from; vegetarian, omnivore, vegan, […]
- [Pillow Covers from a Curtain Panel](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/pillow-covers/): In the spring of 2015, Landon and were in the middle of planning our wedding.  Construction was just starting on our house.  We were both driving an hour one way to work (although Landon would soon be off for the summer).  Landon’s brother and his wife had recently bought a house two miles from where we were building and half the distance to my job.  They were heading out of the country for a two month honeymoon and we graciously agreed to house sit.  I was able to save an hour every day commuting and Landon was so close to general […]
- [Homemade Eyeliner DIY](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/homemade-eyeliner-diy/): About 3 years ago I made the successful switch from pencil to liquid eyeliner.  I had tried different liquid eyeliners before, but they all irritated my eyes.  When I finally found two brands that didn’t hurt, I was pretty happy.  Since then, I have made changes to remove unnecessary chemicals out of our lives and after making my own makeup remover, I felt my actual makeup was next.
- [Unity Braid](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/unity-braid/): It’s a wedding tradition to have some sort of unity ritual within one’s wedding ceremony.  I think candles are the most common, followed by sand.  I have seen a tree planted by my matron of honor at her wedding on their farm.  And my parents attended a wedding that used glass that was later blown into a unity sculpture (this sounds so cool!).  For our wedding, we made a unity braid.  Landon and I truly believe God brought us together and He is equal in our marriage so it made sense that our unity ritual involved God’s knot. I also like […]
- [Mid-Year Resolutions](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/mid-year-resolutions/): I’ve never been good at following the norm.  In fact, I refused to see Avatar when it came out because everyone seemed too obsessed with it.  I often like to take the road less travelled, walk the other side of the tracks, question trends (I get it from my grandfather as well as his sense of direction).  Sometime way back in high school, I decided New Years Resolutions were just too mainstream.  Really, what I dislike about them is the same reason everyone else does: they are hard to maintain.  I decided then that I would make resolutions on my birthday […]
- [Simple 4th of July Door Decor DIY](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/simple-4th-july-door-decor-diy/): I’m back!  I took last week off while we were up in the Northwoods vacationing in a cute little cabin.  But now I am back refreshed and relaxed.  Two days ago I had the brilliant idea to deck our front door out with some 4th of July decor.  This is crazy, because 1) we just came back from vacation and 2) we don’t have any craft stores in our town and there was no way I’d make the hour drive to one.  So I got creative with a simple 4th of July door decor and I had time to do it […]
- [Vacation Planning - the week before](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/vacation-planning/): Maybe it’s because I married into a family of teachers, but it seems like summer is a popular time for vacations.  Next week we are heading way up north (practically Canada ?) with my parents and are renting a cabin for a week.  In just over a year, this will be our 3rd week-long vacation and in this time I’ve learned a few things about vacation planning to make life easier that I thought I’d share with you. I once heard that planning a vacation is half the fun as going on it and I would totally agree!  Typically, I start planning […]
- [DIY Mirror](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-mirror/): This post should really have a second title:  “How to get Your Husband to Not Like Menards” We’ve had this table in our hallway for the past year and a half and I love it.  But I have never really known what to hang above it.  A few months ago I decided a nice big mirror would really anchor it down and help fill a very long boring wall.  There was just one little problem.  Giant mirrors are expensive and I have a lot of walls to fill with things.  So a DIY mirror was the way to go. Back in […]
- [DIY Makeup Remover](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-makeup-remover/): I have sensitive skin.  It is both a curse and a blessing.  Well, maybe the only blessing is I have an excuse when the weirdos at the mall try to get me to look at the overpriced skin care they are selling.  I suppose normal people could just lie and say they have sensitive skin…  Moving on!  The area under my eyes seems to take the brunt of my sensitivity.  I have had 3 different steroid creams prescribed to me in the past decade.  It is not fun to have pain under your eye every night you wash your makeup off. […]
- [Things I am currently loving](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/things-currently-loving/): Things I am currently loving:
- [4 Ingredient Rhubarb Crisp](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/4-ingredient-rhubarb-crisp/): As the grass greens and the days get longer in the spring, it also means it’s time for rhubarb!  So when Landon brought home a giant bag last Friday, I knew rhubarb crisp would be in our future.  I think I have loved rhubarb my whole life.  I am my mother’s daughter.  As a child she would sit on a swing eating rhubarb straight from the garden.  Thats right, she ate it raw!  The summer Landon and I were engaged, I was cutting rhubarb and ate a raw piece.  I then offered him one.  It still cracks me up when I […]
- [Bathroom Wall Art](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/bathroom-wall-art/): Remember last week when I talked about my new ideas with printables?  Well in the midst of working on that bar art, I started making some for our bathroom.  Our bathroom has some large chunks of wall space that just seemed so bare.  The one that bugged me the most was the space above the toilet.  So I used my new printable creating skills and made some bathroom wall art. Now, I haven’t been blogging that long but if you had told me when a few months ago that I would later be taking pictures of the space our toilet occupies, […]
- [Our Bar at the End of the Kitchen](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/our-bar-at-the-end-of-the-kitchen/): Both Landon and I grew up in homes where there was rarely alcohol.  I honestly don’t ever remember seeing my mother drink.  We laugh now because whenever we are at either of our parents’ homes, they are asking us if we want a drink before we even get our shoes off.  My how things change!  To take after their present day hosting antics,  we took it a step further and made a home bar – complete with an oh-so-trendy gallery wall. It’s kind of astounding that we even need a bar when we have a wine rack built into our cabinets […]
- [Kate Spade Inspired Wreath](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/kate-spade-inspired-wreath/): Has anyone noticed the weekly weather trend this month?  It seems every week has started off gorgeous out and sunny on Monday, then gradually gets colder and rainier through the work week, but by the weekend it is once again beautiful and warm.  Mid-week showers bring weekend flowers? Ha maybe not quite but these weeks have really tested my footwear options.  Sandals and boots worn just days apart.  Such a shame!  To brighten my spirits (and our front door), I made a wreath for our front door. Whenever I need a new desktop background, I always search for Kate Spade patterns. […]
- [Life Updates](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/life-updates/): Oh boy has life been busy since my last post!  We stayed home for Easter and definitely took advantage of having a free Saturday to do all sorts of things.  I maybe got a bit ahead of myself by starting three different projects…  But you will see those in due time.  ? A new coffee shop opened up last week in our town so we went for a little coffee date Saturday morning to check it out.  It was amazing!  I cannot wait to go back this weekend and hang out there.  It was a little busy so I was too […]
- [Mercury Glass Coasters DIY](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/mercury-glass-coasters-diy/): Coasters.  They are the sacred barriers between beverages and ring-free furniture.  The first nice coasters I ever bought were from Pier 1 in college and we still use them, but they were only a set of four.  Sometime last year, my mother-in-law had coasters she had never used.  They were the kind you can put little pictures in.  I am not a fan of putting a sweaty glass of water on anyone’s face (even if the picture is under glass) but I knew I would need more than the four coasters I already had and that I could figure out how […]
- [Nashville Road Trip - Part 3](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/nashville-road-trip-part-3/): Last week Landon and I road-tripped to Nashville.  It was about 700 miles from our house to the doorstep of our adorable Airbnb cottage.  Overall, we had a blast and would totally go back again!  Here’s part 3 of our time down south. (You can catch part 1 here and part 2 here.) Day 3 On our third day we ventured out of Nashville to the city of Franklin.  We first stopped at the Carnton Plantation.  It was a house built in the 1820’s and turned into a Civil War hospital during the battle of Franklin in 1864.  We did the extended tour of […]
- [Nashville Road Trip - Part 2](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/nashville-road-trip-part-2/): Last week Landon and I road-tripped to Nashville.  It was about 700 miles from our house to the doorstep of our adorable Airbnb cottage.  Overall, we had a blast and would totally go back again!  Here’s part 2 of our time down south. (You can catch part 1 here.) Day 2 Our second day we got going a little bit faster after having such a relaxing night in.  We headed to the Parthenon first. It is an exact size replica of the original Parthenon in Greece (minus being in ruins).  It was absolutely massive and pictures really don’t do justice. Inside […]
- [Nashville Road Trip - Part 1](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/nashville-road-trip-part-1/): Last week Landon and I road-tripped to Nashville.  It was about 700 miles from our house to the doorstep of our adorable Airbnb cottage.  Overall, we had a blast and would totally go back again!  Here’s part 1 of our time down south. Driving There We spent a whole day driving down.  It really shouldn’t have taken that long but when you are 30minutes in and realize you forgot some crucial articles of clothing so you turn around, that eats up some time.  It also is wise to not constantly look things up on your phone and then try to take a […]
- [20 Ways to Spend your Tax Return](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/20-ways-spend-tax-return/): Ahh tax season, ? the most wonderful time of the year?. Wait-what? Okay, so it’s no Christmas (or any other feel-good-holiday for that matter) BUT it is pretty great when the government gives you a nice check for being a law-abiding citizen who filed taxes. I know, you can argue that it was your money to begin with but it’s nice you get it back. There are so many ideas you can do with your tax return. Here are 10 of my favorite. I even got Landon to contribute 10 things he would use our tax return for. You’ll notice a […]
- [Our Hickory Kitchen](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/our-hickory-kitchen/): I’m not sure how we landed on the idea to have hickory cabinets in our kitchen.  Perhaps it caught our eye during our many trips to Menards.  Or maybe Landon had the idea from a house he once visited.  I know for a fact it was not from Pinterest because I barely found ideas when I started searching for it.  Regardless, we went with hickory and every morning I fall a little more in love when I get my coffee.  ☕️ ❤️   We had a local Amish build our cabinets and they turned out absolutely amazing!  (Can you believe he built […]
- [3 Ingredient Healthy Shamrock Shake](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/3-ingredient-healthy-shamrock-shake/): Ahh, March.  The month that comes in like a lion and out like a lamb.  Or at least that’s what I remember learning in second grade or so.  But it seems to be consistent with the year 2017 as well.  It’s been a rough couple weeks and I am glad we are approaching St. Patrick’s Day and the second half of the month! Last weekend Landon and I headed up north for my cousin’s daughter’s baptism.  She asked me to be the godmother and I could not be more honored!  Our moms were sisters and we grew up with each other […]
- [Heightened Entertainment: DIY TV Hutch](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/heightened-entertainment-diy-tv-hutch/): What a week we have had!  Landon brought the flu home with him last Thursday.  We had planned to visit my parents over the weekend but that was quickly cancelled.  Then Saturday night, I came down with the nasty bug.  We are both feeling much better but the unexpected weekend home was anything but productive.  ?  Last night was the first time we were both feeling normal again.  Tonight we felt so good, we finally installed the hutch we made to give our TV a boost and create more organization with our streaming devices.  This project has been in mind for at […]
- [Most Magnificent Mantle](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/most-magnificent-mantle/): It seems like it took a lifetime to get our mantle made and installed.  It was totally worth the wait in my opinion.  Before our house even had studs for walls, I saw a picture of this kitchen with a raw wood countertop for a bar.  Raw edges, wood grain, oh my beauty!  I had to have it for our mantle! A local Amish man built our kitchen cabinets and he had another Amish friend who could help us find a log for our mantle.  This lovely chunk of walnut sat out for ages to dry, all the bark had to be picked […]
- [10 Ways to Get Rid of Cabin Fever](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/10-ways-get-rid-cabin-fever/): This winter is hopefully more than halfway over and it has been very eventful with weather.  I’m pretty sure we have had more snow days and ice days this year than the last 3 years combined!  Luckily, I work at a company that lets employees work from home so neither one of us has had to venture out into the forbidden tundra on really bad days (like today).  Sometimes those days have fallen on weekends and we have been able to work on a ton of house projects (or start them until we run out of supplies ?), which has been great to […]
- [DIY Tile Magnets](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-tile-magnets/): Landon and I moved into our house just a couple months before Christmas in 2015.  It was our first Christmas as newlyweds and we were blessed to receive countless Christmas cards from friends and family.  I couldn’t wait to display them on our fridge!  There was just one problem – we only owned a handful of magnets.  I looked high and low and just could not find any I liked so I decided to make my own.  The great thing is that I paid only a few dollars and have enough tiles to make over 100 magnets!  I do not need […]
- [3 Songs For My Valentine](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/3-songs-for-my-valentine/): Oh Valentine’s Day.  What a wondrous occasion that leaves men frazzled at floral prices and women hoping their bouquet arrives before their coworkers’.  Actually, I’m sure that is true for many places in the world but, thankfully, I did not get that vibe today. ?? Today, I did get a little reminiscent with songs that have goofy, special, and fun meanings that represent the relationship I have with my husband.  I spent all morning rocking out to them on YouTube and just had to share. The Goofy – “Shut Up & Dance” by Walk the Moon.  We actually used a string quartet version […]
- [The Most Amazing Chair Ever...& New Curtain Rods](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/the-most-amazing-chair-ever-new-curtain-rods/): I am so excited about this post and it feels like it has taken forever to share because I have not been home at the right time for decent lighting to take pictures.  I love sunny winter days but they really hurt taking clear pictures in rooms that face south.  Never mind that now, I was able to figure out some creative lighting techniques after work and now have pictures!  Without further ado, here is my post: It all started when we rearranged our sectional in the living room to make room for our Christmas tree.  It turned out we would have […]
- [City Girl in the Country](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/city-girl-in-the-country/): Ahh, the first blog post.  What the heck do I say?! My name is Leah.  I grew up in a metropolitan area with skyscrapers, multiple giant shopping malls a few miles away, and had a high school graduating class of 800.  I now drive through farmland, passing tractors and Amish buggies alike on my way to work.  The closest mall is an hour away.  My husband is a preschool teacher where the average class size is maybe 45.  While this small-town, country life is interesting enough (do you know how many spiders are in the country?!  It’s a terrifying amount…), I […]
- [DIY High Calorie Purees for Babies and Toddlers](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-high-calorie-purees-for-babies-and-toddlers/): This post is the resource I wish I had found last year. High calorie purees, with macros, especially carbs, taken into careful consideration. As much as I thought I would do baby led weaning, Everett is 22 months old and still can’t feed himself. A store-bought puree or pouch just does not have enough calories […]
- [Decluttering as Disability Parents](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/decluttering-as-disability-parents/): A few weeks after Everett was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, I started following some minimalist accounts.  In that time, I’ve learned a lot about minimalism.  I’ve also been slowly building a list of so many reasons we should simplify our lives because we have a child with a disability. This list has immediate benefits, […]
- [265 Days](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/265-days/): Today is a monumental day for our family.  No, it’s not anyone’s birthday or a holiday.  It’s not a day most people reading this will ever reach as a milestone either.  As of today, Everett has lived 265 days without Type 1 diabetes and 265 days with it.  Not to sound cliché, but tomorrow is […]
- [22 Things I Learned in 2022 and My Hopes for 2023](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/22-things-i-learned-in-2022-and-my-hopes-for-2023/): 2022 was without a doubt the hardest year of my life.  I got the idea for this post a few weeks ago and thought after the year we’ve had, it might be interesting to document.  I’m not holding anything back.  There has been a lot of stress, angst, and worry.  There have been happy tears and […]
- [A Day In The Life of a Type 1 Diabetes Parent](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-type-1-diabetes-parent/): Oh boy has it been awhile since I posted last.  In May, Everett became our hospital’s youngest to be diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 8 months old.  If I’m being honest, the last four months have been hell regarding this autoimmune disease.  I was inspired a few times to document a day in the […]
- ["Everyone Should Have a Choice"](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/everyone-should-have-a-choice/): A few weeks ago, I shared with someone who did not know of Everett’s Down syndrome diagnosis.  It took me a couple days to shake off the conversation but in light of World Down Syndrome Day, his words are once again ringing in my ears. “Everyone should have a choice.” I am quite certain my […]
- [What I Want You to Know About Down syndrome](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/what-i-want-you-to-know-about-down-syndrome/): When Everett was a few hours old, the hospital pediatrician said he had some soft markers for Down syndrome and wanted to test him.  The waiting period was some of the hardest days I’ve lived through.  After the diagnosis, I had so many questions.  I read, I learned, and there is so much that I […]
- [Everett's Birth Story](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/everetts-birth-story/): This is by far the longest post I have ever written.  I have included headings that hopefully guide you to reading any parts of interest.  We had a somewhat life-altering surprise after Everett was born and this is the condensed version we are willing to share. Anyone who has recently been pregnant is probably familiar […]
- [2021 Life Updates](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/2021-life-updates/): Guess who’s back?  Back again…  Ufda.  I did not expect to take such a hiatus from blogging!  In fact, I went into the year with so many ideas for blog posts.  I also went into the year with a positive pregnancy test and symptoms from that definitely changed things. If I could summarize 2021 in […]
- [Our Favorite Projects of 2020](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/our-favorite-projects-of-2020/): Happy New Year!  Over the past few years, I have always been so eager to get to the next year.  After all that has happened in 2020, you’d think I’d be ready to do that again.  But while 2020 has had plenty of disappointments and challenges, I want to reflect on the good things that […]
- [Two Great Christmas Reads](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/two-great-christmas-reads/): I can’t believe we are in the final stretch to Christmas!  I’m still confused where the time went after Thanksgiving.  I did catch some down time for leisure reading and found two great Christmas reads.  One is fast and the other is a bit longer.  But both will definitely leave you feeling happy and ready […]
- [Peppermint Syrup For Coffee Drinks](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/peppermint-syrup-for-coffee-drinks/): The timing of the Pumpkin Spice Latte is very controversial.  The actual enjoyment of the drink is also debatable.  But the ultimate coffee flavor that doesn’t get enough street cred in my opinion is peppermint!  As soon as my coffee and lattes switch from iced to hot, the peppermint syrup makes its seasonal debut.  Last […]
- [DIY Tassel Curtains](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-tassel-curtains/): I am so excited about this DIY.  I searched high and low and could not find curtains I liked for the basement.  So I did what any crafter would do, I made my own DIY Tassel Curtains!  They were super easy to make and I love the touch of whimsy they bring to the space.
- [Alcohol-Free Wine to Celebrate the Holidays](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/alcohol-free-wine/): It goes without saying that 2020 is a very different year.  The holidays will be different.  Alcohol consumption is already different – it’s increased over last year thanks to the pandemic.  So why not end the year with different wine?  Alcohol-free wine that is.  I’ve been trying different brands for months and have narrowed it […]
- [Why And How We Painted Our Basement Floor](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/painted-basement-floor/): In early March, back when life was normal, we painted our basement floor instead of having flooring installed.  It’s been one of the best decisions we made for our house!  Here is a recap on why we opted for paint over traditional flooring, how much elbow grease went into it, and an overview of the […]
- [How I Easily Got Longer Lashes](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/longer-lashes/): My name is Leah and I suffer from short eyelashes.  Like insanely short.  As in my top lashes are as long as my bottom lashes.  But in the last few months I’ve changed all that.  I have long lashes and I didn’t need a prescription to get it!  For the past three months I have […]
- [3 Books for the Wanderlust Reader](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/3-books-for-the-wanderlust-reader/): I’ll be honest.  I’ve only just started feeling all the anxious feelings around staying home.  Initially, we kept ourselves so busy, I didn’t really have a chance to miss going places.  Sure, I am bummed we had to cancel a trip.  But I thought we would have it rescheduled by now.  Since travel is out […]
- [October 2020 Updates](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/october-2020-updates/): We have been so blessed with such amazing fall weather this week!  And fall peak is this weekend so everything is looking so vibrant.  I’m reminded how much I love Octobers.  Here’s what’s new for us this season.
- [Oh My Pumpkin! Fall Decor](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/oh-my-pumpkin-fall-decor/): Happy fall y’all!  I’ve always wanted to say that but not being from the south, “y’all” just feels weird to say out loud.  Anyway, I have pumpkin muffins in the oven and am rocking a flannel shirt today.  Crisp, fall weather has arrived and I am totally here for it!  My house is ready too!  […]
- [Lacquer Box DIY](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/lacquer-box-diy/): Remember back in March and April when everyone was decluttering in a way that would make Marie Kondo proud?  I didn’t go very hardcore but I did find a half stained wood box in the one tote I went through.  Nearly everything is back in that tote but I was able to give the wood […]
- [DIY Texture Art](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-texture-art/): First, how is it September already?  Second, thank goodness we’re this far into the year.  And third, it took all summer but I finally have art that doesn’t say “Let it snow.”  I made this super easy DIY texture art last weekend and it’s exactly what I need when it’s not appropriate to snow.
- [The Easiest Floral Initial Wreath](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/the-easiest-floral-initial-wreath/): Do you ever have those spur of the moment ideas that end up falling together even better than you thought?  That’s this wreath!  I love this time of year when hydrangeas start turning blush colored.  Our hydrangeas are still too small to bloom yet so I thought I’d bring my own blush florals to our […]
- [Our Favorite Costco Buys](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/our-favorite-costco-buys/): Have you ever had a membership to a club store? We became Costco members last December and are a little obsessed!  Now that we’ve gone many times, I thought I’d share our favorite Costco buys we purchase on repeat.
- [Standing Desk and Footrest](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/standing-desk-and-footrest/): I don’t know about you but I am in my 22nd week working from home.  22 weeks!  I have yet to miss my commute but after about the first week, I was really missing my standing desk I had in the office.  Ironically enough, I was planning to purchase a standing desk for my office at […]
- [3 Beach Reads](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/3-beach-reads/): Well it’s the end of July.  Summer might be coming closer to an end but I’m not sure staying home is.  Tell me I’m not the only one spending my days reading a lot more than normal.  While I wouldn’t mind reading beach side at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico in the middle of February, […]
- [DIY Nautical Shelves](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-nautical-shelves/): Do you ever have those ideas that sound weird?  I told my husband I wanted to put wall shelves up in our guest bedroom and hot glue rope to the brackets.  He’s used to me having weird ideas so I didn’t have to push much.  But with weird ideas, sometimes they fail.  This, however, is […]
- [Mask Necklace Holder - Multiple Ideas](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/mask-necklace-holder/): Well it seems masks are here to stay for awhile.  And there’s nothing better than taking it off the minute you walk outside. But I’ve had some close calls dropping mine.  Fumbling with removing a mask and putting sunglasses on, often while holding a bag and keys.  It’s not ideal that’s for sure.  If only […]
- [Treadmill Table 2.0](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/treadmill-table-2-0/): What is it about treadmills that make them so unappealing on the eyes?  Don’t get me wrong, they are an amazing machine but they don’t really go with any decor.  Well, except maybe a gym’s decor.  Not the point.  A few years ago I got an old treadmill for free.  And I mean old.  It […]
- [Life Updates Summer 2020](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/life-updates-summer-2020/): Is it really July?!  I can’t believe how fast the past month has flown by!  We’ve celebrated 3 birthdays and Father’s Day with Landon’s family.  The one free weekend in between all that my parents came for a visit.  We hadn’t seen them since the end of February so it was so nice!  With all […]
- [I Was Anastasia Book Review](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/i-was-anastasia-book-review/): This is nothing like the Disney version of Anastasia Romanov.  It is so much better!  Written by Arial Lawhon and well researched historical accuracy, I cannot recommend this book enough.  I only saw the Disney film a few times as a child and I don’t recall learning about Tsar Nicholas II and the Romanov family […]
- [Free Bird Door Decor (and DIY Decorative Bird Cage)](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/free-bird-and-diy-decorative-bird-cage/): This is definitely most whimsical DIY yet.  But it has so much meaning behind it.  Back in April, as we were approaching a full month staying home, I felt compelled to make something for when we were free again.  Free bird door decor.  Things definitely are not back to normal but as most states are […]
- [Faux Window Grilles](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/faux-window-grilles/): Back when we were building our house, I wanted garage doors with windows.  Specifically windows with grilles.  Sadly, our choices only had plain windows.  I’m so excited to share how I created faux window grilles for only $5 and less than an hour of my time – including cleaning the windows.  It really updates our […]
- [One Shell of a Bathroom](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/one-shell-of-a-bathroom/): Pardon the play on words, but the basement bathroom is complete – kind of.  It is fully operable, just missing some things to make it feel complete.  We have all the plumbing, we have all the walls and ceiling, the vanity (actually two of them).  But it feels a bit like a model home in […]
- [Decanting Pantry Items and Cook Time Cheat Sheet](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/decanting-pantry-items/): Is your phone all organized now?  Are you ready for an easy project away from the couch?  How about decanting your pantry items?  With all the baking I’ve been doing at home, I got really sick of the messy flour and sugar bags.  I took 10 minutes of my Saturday night (what else is there […]
- [How to Organize from Your Couch](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/organize-from-couch/): When I was in college, my friends and I had a joke that our rooms were the cleanest whenever we had a big paper due or a test to study for.  It was like we couldn’t get down to business and focus unless everything was Marie Kondo’d – and this was before anyone in the […]
- [Natural Beauty Products I'm Loving](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/natural-beauty-products/): Amidst everything going on, it feels a bit trivial to be writing about beauty products.  But maybe you’re in the same boat as me and want to feel sort of put together while at home.  If that’s the case, I have three products I’ve been using for a few months now that have seriously impressed […]
- [How to Paint Stairs to Look Like Wood](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/paint-stairs-like-wood/): This has to be one of my most exciting projects to date!  Our stairs to our basement have been unfinished, just like our basement has been.  The problem was that our stairs have an open railing and are fully visible from our main floor.  No matter how much our great room came together decor-wise, it […]
- [Our New Normal](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/our-new-normal/): We are in our fourth week of staying home.  I really wasn’t sure if I’d talk about this when this new normal first started, but I feel like I have thoughts to share.  Just thoughts on what we have been doing, how we have been doing, and trying to look on the bright side while […]
- [Favorite Books to Read While Social Distancing](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/favorite-books-social-distancing/): You know those books you read that stick with you?  Not only are they often page turners but they also stay with you long after you read the last page.  All this social distancing has me craving to find one of those books.  And I started recalling those books I’ve already read.  While I’m on […]
- [Why You Need a Recipe Book (and How to Make One)](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/why-you-need-a-recipe-book-and-how-to-make-one/): I have a confession.  I stopped doing my month long meal planning for a short time.  We were in a recipe rut and I just needed to try new things!  When I found a recipe on Pinterest, I printed the recipe out to follow and it was a game changer.  I started printing out all […]
- [DIY Reusable Produce Bags](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-reusable-produce-bags/): With all the uncertainty in the world right now, I debated if I should still post this tutorial.  But then I noticed Joann’s and Hobby Lobby are still open and shipping online orders.  And then I realized that even if we are staying home more, we still are getting groceries.  Plus, with wanting to keep […]
- [Layered Necklaces Clasp and Simple DIY Necklaces](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/layered-necklaces-clasp/): There are so many different things I want to cover in this post!  First, a few months ago I was playing around with my jewelry making supplies and created a simple pattern using basic jewelry findings.  Shortly after, a coworker had just purchased some necklaces to wear together for that new layered look trend.  I […]
- [Mini Wreath Centerpiece Multiple Ways](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/mini-wreath-centerpiece/): While getting fabric at Joann’s for the tissue holders I made, I checked out the floral department too.  They have the cutest little wreaths!  I had never really seen a mini wreath but they just called to me and I had to get one.  I picked up this little eucalyptus wreath thinking it was both […]
- [DIY Tissue Holder](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-tissue-holder/): You know that saying that your crazy is showing?  I feel like my old lady is showing with this DIY.  But cold season is still present and allergies are right around the corner.  Who doesn’t need some tissues on hand?  Have you ever purchased those little plastic packs of tissues?  They always just seem so […]
- [Emily Ley Book Reviews](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/emily-ley-book-reviews/): I first discovered Emily Ley when I purchased one of her planners for 2019.  The planner was simple but had everything needed.  It even had little tips every month to declutter or simplify my life.  I then discovered she had a website with lots of free printables and a blog that talked about all sorts […]
- [Basement and Life Updates](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/basement-and-life-updates/): It has been quite the week since I posted last!  Things are coming along with the basement.  Who knew a little flooring and an accent wall would make such a big difference?!  We also have discovered a new favorite drink for keeping a cold away.  Landon found some sheds behind our house.  And I have […]
- [Braided Felt Garland](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/braided-felt-garland/): Who says garland is only for Christmas?  Lately I’ve felt like sprucing up a few spots in my home and decided a felt garland would do just that.  So I made this super easy braided felt garland.  It’s quick, easy, versatile, and can fit any home.  It also would be a great project for a […]
- [Products for Thin and/or Thinning Hair](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/products-for-thin-hair/): Do you have thin or thinning hair?  Are you struggling to find products to “fix” your thin hair?  Let me tell ya, I know exactly how you feel!  Between the iron issues, and other health things, my hair is nothing like it used to be.  Growing up it was a pretty decent medium-thick with some […]
- [A Night in with Audrey, Marilyn, and Grace](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/a-night-in-with-audrey-marilyn-and-grace/): Have you ever wanted to meet Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, and Grace Kelly?  How neat would it be to hang out with them one on one?  Well for Libby Lomax, each of those famous ladies magically appear on her old, smelly sofa!  Lucy Holliday wrote this book series and as far as I can tell […]
- [Life and Money Hacks for 2020](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/life-and-money-hacks-for-2020/): I love life hacks.  Finding easier ways to conquer every day tasks is my jam.  This is also referred to as “creating margin” – aka, making more time for what matters most to you.  I also am a nerd and love personal finance.  So if you think I’m not entering the new roaring ’20s with […]
- [Reflecting on 2019](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/reflecting-on-2019/): As we enter a new year and decade, I want to embrace it more than any new year before.  Mostly because I want to close the door on 2019 as tight as possible.  I have told others that I would like to give a middle finger to this past year and even joked about drinking […]
- [NYE Glitter Sweatshirt DIY](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/nye-glitter-sweatshirt-diy/): I hope you had a Merry Christmas!  It’s hard to believe it’s already over and 2020 is just around the corner.  We are keeping our New Year’s Eve festivities pretty low key this year but I still wanted to ring in the year with some glitter.  And NYE is usually frigid here so I need […]
- [Office Survival Kit Gift](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/office-survival-kit-gift/): This Friday my department is having our holiday party with white elephant gifts.  I’m not one to go for the crude or stupid-funny gifts so I thought I’d make something a little more cute-funny.  We’ve had a lot of changes within our company this year and our whole department is a mixture of previous separate […]
- [DIY Pom Pom Earrings](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-pom-pom-earrings/): Remember when I made earrings inspired by Joanna Gaines?  Well there is a new girl on HGTV that has inspired me to make the perfect winter earrings!  Heather Fox of the show Stay or Sell had multiple pairs.  I lost count at how many different ones she had when their series premiered at the end […]
- [I Love You A Latte, Nespresso Machine](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/i-love-you-a-latte-nespresso-machine/): I’ve been keeping a secret for almost a year.  The secret is I have been making Starbucks equivalent lattes at home in less than a minute.  How is this possible?  With a Nespresso machine!  I don’t normally get attached to inanimate objects but this machine is absolutely wonderful.  If there is one thing you get […]
- [Dairy Free Egg Bake](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/dairy-free-egg-bake/): The holidays are coming!  And what do holidays usually mean?  Lots of people who need to eat.  I’m sure you’re hashing out who’s bringing what to Thanksgiving but what about the other meals of the weekend?  You know breakfast is the most important one!  I have been dairy free for a little over two years […]
- [Super Simple Napkin Rings](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/super-simple-napkin-rings/): Cloth napkins are great.  They add a level of elegance and also are less wasteful to the environment.  Last year I made extremely affordable napkins for the holiday season.  Ever since then, I’ve been looking for the perfect napkin rings to go with them.  I’ve searched high, I’ve searched low.  But I didn’t expect to […]
- [Life Updates and A Challenge for You](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/life-updates-challenge/): It’s hard to believe it’s November already!  Actually, it’s harder to believe we got 4 inches of snow since last night.  It’s still early November after all.  Anyway, the last two weeks have been pretty eventful for us so I’d thought I’d share what’s been happening.  I also have a challenge fo you to do […]
- [Anthropologie Inspired Ceiling Fan Update](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/ceiling-fan-update/): I grew up watching Trading Spaces.  My mom and I would tune in every week to see what sort of crazy decorating would happen.  Would they glue more straw on someone’s wall?  What about flowers on every inch of a bathroom?  Or maybe just some sand instead of real flooring?  But one thing that was […]
- [Basement Bathroom Mood Board](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/basement-bathroom-mood-board/): We are so close to getting our basement bathroom finished!  We’ve ordered the tub and the vanity and have gotten quotes for flooring!  Still quite a bit of work to do but after having the flooring samples for a week, I had to create a mood board to see how it all would come together.  […]
- [4 Hours in Galena, IL](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/4-hours-in-galena-il/): Last Saturday, Landon and I took a day trip to Galena, IL.  In April, we got the idea to go in possibly May or June but then our weekends just filled up.  Throw in some more booked weekends in July, a second surgery, and well, we finally got to go in October!  But it was […]
- [Dollar Store Pumpkin Makeover](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/dollar-store-pumpkin-makeover/): Well, it’s October so it’s officially pumpkin everything season.  I actually started adding pumpkin in my life a few weeks ago.  A big batch of pumpkin muffins was the perfect fuel to makeover these dollar store pumpkins!
- [Deck and Landscaping Rock Reveal](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/deck-and-landscaping/): It’s time!  It’s time to reveal our deck addition and landscaping rock.  This was actually a summer project that has been done for a month.  But, the yard got a little torn up so I wanted to wait until the grass grew back.  Be ready for lots of pictures!
- [Fall Leaf Wreath & DIY Coffee Stain](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/fall-leaf-wreath-diy-coffee-stain/): So what if it’s been 80 degrees this week and feels more like July than September?  I’ve got all things fall on my mind and am dressing my house to represent that.  Starting with our front door.  I made this easy fall leaf wreath and even made my own DIY coffee stain for the wood […]
- [Rainy Day To-Do List](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/rainy-day-to-do-list/): You know how there are always tasks you think of to do at home?  But they are never super important like washing the dishes or doing laundry?  Landon and I always seem to have a list of tasks that aren’t pressing but also not “wow” projects like a whole laundry room makeover or landscaping or […]
- [Healthy Pina Colada Smoothie](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/healthy-pina-colada/): “If you like pina coladas, and getting caught in the rain…”  Well you don’t need to get caught in the rain with this drink!  In fact, sipping this pina colada smoothie will have you thinking you’re on a sunny beach somewhere.  Back to school got you down?  Have a pina colada smoothie!  Realizing you have […]
- [Back to School/Work Hacks](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/back-to-school-work-hacks/): As of this past Friday, I am official off crutches!  Nearly two weeks sooner than my last surgery which is pretty incredible!  But that means I now am back in the office rather than working from home every day.  It’s ironic timing since Landon has been in school a few days this week in preparation […]
- [DIY Headboard Slipcover](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-headboard-slipcover/): Do you have a room in your house that is full of mismatched furniture?  Our guest room has been a room of hand-me-down furniture.  It’s all in great condition but between the wood tones on the floor, the dressers, and the headboard, it was too much variation for me!  We have matching twin beds to […]
- [Book Review - The Au Pair by Emma Rous](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/book-review-the-au-pair-by-emma-rous/): Some books you read have stories that stay with you.  Some books are written so well that the author completely captivates you before the story has a chance to climax.  The Au Pair by Emma Rous is both.  Rous unfolds two stories simultaneously alternating chapters between Serephine Mayes in present time and the au pair […]
- [Life Updates:  Summer 2019](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/life-updates-summer-2019/): What a summer!  What a year really, and it’s only a week into August!  I feel like we have been up to so many projects this year but nothing has been “complete” enough for a blog post.  But the journey is half the fun and I think fun should be shared.  So here is everything […]
- [How to Create a Password Tracker for Free](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/create-password-tracker/): Guys, we need to get serious over on this part of the internet.  Bad things can happen without a moment’s notice and it pays to be prepared.  Today I am sharing how I set up a secure password tracker for Landon and myself.  There are different apps out there but most of them cost money.  […]
- [DIY Ottoman](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-ottoman/): I love when the opportunity comes up to make something that I can’t find in stores.  This is exactly what happened when I decided I wanted an ottoman for a reading nook in my office.  I had an old chair that rocked and swiveled and didn’t look like a nursery chair.  But it’s old, like […]
- [How to Make a Pillow Form](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-to-make-a-pillow-form/): Have you ever needed a specific shaped pillow?  Maybe you couldn’t find the right size at a craft store or maybe you could but the price was too high even with a coupon.  Well this is the post for you!  Not only is it easy, but it’s also very inexpensive to make a pillow form […]
- [Golf Themed Centerpiece](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/golf-themed-centerpiece/): Due to my hip surgery, I won’t be able to play golf this year.  But that doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy a golf themed centerpiece on our kitchen table!  It was also a way to reuse things from our wedding that otherwise wouldn’t see the light of day.  This could easily be recreated on a […]
- [Hair Barrette DIY](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/hair-barrette-diy/): I don’t wear red.  People who know my mother probably wouldn’t think we are related with that fact.  She loves red.  And consequently, always has something to wear for most holidays.  I struggle at Christmas, Memorial Day, and the Fourth of July with what to wear.  Well not anymore!  This Fourth of July, I am […]
- [How to Create a Month Long Meal Plan](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/month-long-meal-plan/): For as long as I can remember, I have always tried to meal plan on a weekly basis.  I hate the feeling of realizing my plan for dinner is ruined by missing one crucial ingredient.  And going to the grocery store multiple times a week is not a fun way to spend your time, even […]
- [How to Build a Mailbox](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-to-build-a-mailbox/): Remember when the windchill was 50 below in January?  We do, it’s when our mailbox died.  The plow came by and the snow had hardened into chunks and just took it out.  Landon went out in the blistering cold to fix it.  And for weeks after, every time I went to get the mail I […]
- [Three Things Fueling the Month of May](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/three-things-fueling-may/): It’s been a hot minute since I shared some things I’m currently loving.  But since all three of these have been fueling the month of May for me, I figured I owed them the spotlight.
- [How to Use a Salad Spinner Plus Salad Dressing Recipe](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-to-use-a-salad-spinner-plus-salad-dressing-recipe/): We are big fans of salads.  Side salads, main course salads, all of the above.  Leafy greens?  Yes, please!  But no one wants soggy leafy greens or their romaine looking brown.  And making sure it’s nice and clean before eating is important.  One of my favorite wedding registry items was my salad spinner.  It is […]
- [DIY Floating Frame for Vinyl Decals](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-floating-frame-for-vinyl-decals/): Sometimes you DIY because no one makes what you want.  And sometimes you DIY because it’s more affordable.  Then other times, it’s a combination of both, like this DIY floating frame for vinyl decals.  I could not find a floating frame the right size for my laundry room decal and I really didn’t want to […]
- [Torch Lamp Makeover](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/torch-lamp-makeover/): I have this corner in my home office that I have big plans for.  The first step is to get a floor lamp.  I had this old purple from my teenage bedroom but I didn’t want the torch light.  Or the purple.  A handful of years ago I had recovered a lamp shade that I […]
- [DIY Sunglasses Holder](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-sunglasses-holder/): I think I jinxed it.  I made this great DIY sunglasses holder and since then all we’ve gotten is rain and snow.  Then again, that means I’m not wearing my sunglasses so I guess it works out they have such a nice place to hang.
- [What I Learned Reading 2 NY Times Bestsellers](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/what-i-learned-reading-2-ny-times-bestsellers/): I don’t typically gravitate towards nonfiction.  I don’t dislike it, I just tend to read before bed and want the grown up version of a nice bedtime story.  When I found out I was having hip surgery, I started making a list of all the nonfiction books I’ve always been curious about.  Out of curiosity, […]
- [DIY Suede Earrings](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-suede-earrings/): Need some earrings to match your Easter dress?  Or just want some that remind you of Joanna Gaines?  Here is a super easy suede earrings DIY.
- [DIY Easter Wreath](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-easter-wreath/): It has been quite a while since I made some décor for our front door.  I’ve been sitting on an Easter wreath idea since the beginning of February.  And I am so excited about how it turned out!  It was also super fast and easy to make. Plus, it gives a simple reminder about what this […]
- [How to Prepare for Hip Surgery](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-to-prepare-for-hip-surgery/): Three weeks ago I had hip surgery.  What I’ve learned from telling people about my surgery is that they assume this is an old person procedure and wonder why I had it.  I had a hip arthroscopy which I would say is more common among younger adults than, say, a hip replacement that is more […]
- [How to Make a Baking Conversion Chart with Canva](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-to-make-a-baking-conversion-chart-with-canva/): Growing up I remember baking with my mom on occasion.  We always used the same counter spot and it wasn’t the most spacious.  But it was where all the baking supplies (flour, sugar, etc) were and close to the mixing bowls and measuring cups and spoons.  This little corner also had a *fancy* cabinet door. […]
- [Lady Be Good - Book Review](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/lady-be-good-book-review/): I recently read Lady Be Good by Amber Brock.  This book had so many “can’t put down” moments within its story.  But it also had a deeper meaning.  Something enjoyable to read, but something that makes you look at your own life.  Or at least that’s what it was for me.
- [DIY West Elm Inspired Hook Rack](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-west-elm-inspired-hook-rack/): A couple weeks ago I shared our laundry room reveal.  Last year when we were planning the space, I fell in love with a hook rack from West Elm.  There were two problems though: it was $200 and it was in brass (we wanted silver).  The lovely hook rack went on sale a few times […]
- [Laundry Room Reveal](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/laundry-room-reveal/): It’s done!  Our laundry room has cabinets and a bench and shoe storage!  The only thing missing is a self running washer and dryer but I don’t think those are on the market.  Anyway, we didn’t complete this room when we were building our house to save a little money but I also wasn’t sure […]
- [Things to do when Winter is Never Ending](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/winter-never-ending/): Does anyone feel as though this winter is lasting an eternity?  I normally love winter but then again, I also love winter sports and I have not been able to do them this year (more on that later).  We have reached mid-February and realized the schools around here have not gone for a full 5 […]
- [An Essential Drawer for Essential Oils](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/an-essential-drawer-for-essential-oils/): By now it should come as no surprise that I use essential oils for lots of things in my life.  Like hand soap, body wash, laundry, allergy fighter…  You get the idea.  So naturally, I have quite a few bottles of the stuff.  I had been using some nice wood boxes for storing oils but […]
- [How Vitamin C Serum Changed My Life](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/how-vitamin-c-serum-changed-my-life/): Hi, my name is Leah and I suffer from dry skin.  So dry, I have been applying moisturizer to my face multiple times a day this month.  And I don’t just mean multiple as in once in the morning and once in the evening.  Oh no, Monday I was home due to a blizzard and […]
- [Amazing Sautéed Kale - Whole 30 Approved](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/amazing-sauteed-kale/): Last fall we tried the meal box service Blue Apron.  I never got around to a review like I did for Green Chef here, but honestly, we weren’t overly impressed.  Except for the sautéed kale that was made with some salmon.  Oh my goodness was that good!  So good, I found myself craving it again […]
- [Post Christmas Winter Mantel](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/post-christmas-winter-mantel/): Happy Mid-January!  I feel like the past few weeks since Christmas have flown by but also have moved slowly.  Is that even possible?  Normally I like to keep my Christmas decor up all through January.  I think this is because we travel so much in December I’m not home to enjoy it until January.  But […]
- [DIY Fleece Poncho](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/diy-fleece-poncho/): I am fortunate enough to have a job that lets me work from home a couple days a week.  While working from home, I often get really cold because I’m just sitting still all day.  I usually use a space heater in my office so I don’t have to heat the entire house.  The problem […]
- [9 Songs for 2019](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/9-songs-for-2019/): Music can be so therapeutic.  It can capture emotions and moods and feelings when you can’t put them all into words.  2018 definitely brought a lot of ups and downs and I am expecting 2019 to do the same.  But here are 9 songs I’ll be listening to a lot this year for different reasons. […]
- [Admiring Eyes and Grateful Hearts](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/admiring-eyes-and-grateful-hearts/): Every so often I get inspired and I need to write something.  Sometimes it’s a poem, sometimes it’s more like a journal entry.  Sometimes they are about difficult things.  Other times they are reflections or dreams or wishes.  Below is something I wrote at the end of November.  I rarely share these writings but I […]
- [Two DIY Necklaces](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/two-diy-necklaces/): Some people appreciate a handmade gift.  Some people appreciate jewelry.  And if you can satisfy both then that’s a win-win.  I did that – twice.  I made two different styles of DIY necklaces for Christmas gifts. One is so simple, no craft skills required.  The other is great if you have a bead and wire background […]
- [Super Simple Christmas Tree Centerpiece](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/super-simple-christmas-tree-centerpiece/): In early November I started telling Landon I wanted to build a forest on our dining table.  In my mind I pictured so many tiny trees spread all across the table.  I didn’t quite get as much of a forest as I pictured in my mind but this super easy centerpiece is so much better.

## Pages

- [Privacy Policy](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/privacy-policy/): DateLast Updated: February 2023 SECTION 1: WHO WE AREOur website address is thebluedoorandmore.com . Privacy information is controlled by Leah Harger who can be reached at leah@thebluedoorandmore.com. SECTION 2: WHAT PERSONAL DATA WE COLLECT AND WHY WE COLLECT ITCOMMENTS When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and […]
- [Contact](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/contact/)
- [Blog](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/blog/)
- [Home page](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/home/): This is your front page. Click the ‘edit’ link to change the contents
- [About Me](https://thebluedoorandmore.com/about-me/): In 2015 I (and my now husband) had these crazy ideas to get engaged, build a house, and commute an hour one way to our jobs every day.  I told you the ideas were crazy.  Did I mention he’s a preschool teacher and general contracted said house?  Rockstar right there.  Anyway, we now are married, […]

## Optional

- [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/thebluedoorandmore.com/mcp)

[comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)