Today...

This morning I sat by the fire, counted my many blessings, and as I prayed I sought out my word for the year. I have been doing this for years and have used words such as simplicity {many times}, gratitude, discipline, and the like. This year I have yet to have "that" word, but I know something is stirring within. I wil share once I receive my answer. We returned from our trip late Tuesday. Currently I have the last load of laundry in the dryer, house is clean, and I am finally taking the time to plot out the new year. I will share the highlights of our two week road trip to Charleston, Washington DC, and New York City next week. Everything from the sites, food, and what my musts are for packing. For now I have tons of editing and emailing to do. Thank you to everyone who followed along on Instagram and those of you who shared your favorites. You really made our trip much easier. I will say that the trip inspired me like no other. It gave me the jump start I needed for the year.

SIDENOTE: The Mr and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary of our first date in DC on New Years Eve. It was surreal looking at how far we have come. This bible he gifted me on our wedding day that following July. It still may be my favorite gift ever. God's word has guided us through these last 10 years and makes life ever more sweet even during the times it feels hard to breath and we have had more than our far share of those.

Happy New Year!

We are celebrating New Years in DC and I could not be any more excited! Can't wait to share a bit from our trip thus far. The best part by far is having uninterrupted family time. Oh, and any sneaky peeps our home is still occupied. Ha. See you all in 2014!!! So crazy!!!!

*Audrey Hepburn

Local Real Estate {it's a good one}

These very well may be the worst images I have ever posted on Two Ellie, but at the same time they are too good not share! Of course I came across them on my weekly real estate stalking. This home is owned by an old Cottage Living magazine editor, which I still miss to this day, and I have seen the kitchen/eating nook in Southern Living at some point. Her name? Yay, I can't recall. My bad.

The entry gets me. Love the painted brick and blue/green door. The bench is just perfect and you know I love all the greenery.

This image instantly let me know a designer lived here and a brilliant one at that.

Do you spy on the right side the cabinet that was once used in a bedroom makeover for Cottage Living? If I recall correctly it was a piece they painted from World Market ages ago.

The chandelier reminds me of a Stray Dog piece. LOVE the whimsy it adds to a rather traditional space.

The main living room is rather neutral with fun color intermingled. Still soothing yet very fun. Have always loved the throw pillows too.

This is the space I remember from Southern Living. 

Adore the circa lighting and the acrylic stools. The double doors lead out to a screened in porch that was recently on the cover of Southern Living at some point per the realtor comments.

The child's rocker is a favorite of mine. I have the stationary adult version.

I know you have seen the elephant hamper before. I will never tire of it. Such a sweet addition to any child's room.

swoon.

*This listing is for $499,999 in Homewood, AL. 3 bedrooms/2 Full baths. As always if you want more info contact me and I will get you in contact with the listing agent.