It’s hard to believe one year ago I was moving into a new house in a new state with my new husband! In some ways, the year flew by. In other ways, I look back on all of the work we’ve done and it seems like we’ve been in this house forever.

What have I learned from one year in a new home? LOTS.

First, I’m an impatient person. My husband is a very patient person. The biggest thing we had to learn was to be realistic about how quickly projects would be completed. Within one day of moving in, the house had been deep cleaned and I had a paintbrush in my hand. Within three days, all boxes were unpacked. I needed to feel settled and that first weekend was essential to making the new space feel more like home. (We did accidentally sell our house too quickly and had to live with my in-laws for 3 months, so I was ready for my own house, although my in-laws are wonderful!)

Overall, we focused on one space at a time. Our first task was painting the primary bathroom, then painting the living space, then making the primary bedroom luxurious.

It was really important that we actually enjoyed our new space and time allowed us to think about what we wanted to do. In one year, it truly feels like home and each decor item has a story or memory, adding a special touch to the home.

Our house was built in the 1940s but has undergone a renovation that updated the home. We wanted to purchase a house where we could add our flare, and not require a gut job. No matter what, homeownership will require some sweat and tears.

New Home Project Priorities

What’s next in our home

All but two rooms in the house have been painted since we moved in. The last two rooms are on the list! Waiting to paint the last two rooms took some stress and pressure off of making everything perfect right away. Plus, I have more to look forward to!