For years, I've heard people sing praises of Agreeable Gray. It's often described as the "perfect neutral," a color that "goes with everything." But I was never convinced. I saw it everywhere, so the paint color just seemed overdone to me.

When it came time to paint our flip house, we needed professional help. That's when Kevin from R.C. Nielson & Son Inc. stepped in. He suggested Agreeable Gray, and although I was hesitant, I decided to trust his expertise.

Agreeable Gray is a warm, light gray with a soft undertone that leans towards taupe. Its LRV (Light Reflectance Value) is 60, making spaces look larger and more open. This color perfectly balances warm and cool tones, allowing it to pair well with a wide range of colors—from earthy hues to vibrant shades.

I watched the house transform as Kevin and his team worked their magic. The color added sophistication and calmness that I hadn't expected. It was as if the room had been waiting for this color all along.

I'm officially a convert. Agreeable Gray has made its way into my list of go-to paint colors, and I have Kevin to thank for that. It's versatile, elegant, and, yes, incredibly agreeable.

So there you have it, folks. Sometimes, it takes an expert's nudge to help us see the beauty in something we've overlooked. A big shoutout to Kevin from R.C. Nielson & Son Inc. for introducing me to the wonders of Agreeable Gray. I can't wait to use it in future projects!

If you've been following my journey with the flip house, you know that I'm always on the hunt for the perfect finishing touches. And let me just put it out there: Amazon is the MVP when it comes to farmhouse lighting. Yes, you read that right—Amazon, the online marketplace with everything from A to Z, is my go-to for lighting fixtures that add that rustic, cozy charm we all love in a farmhouse setting.

You might be wondering, "Why Amazon?" Well, let me tell you, the lighting options available are not just good; they are exceptional. And the best part? The prices won't burn a hole in your pocket. It's like stumbling upon a hidden thrift store gem, but online!

As someone who's incredibly visual, I often find myself hesitant to click that "Buy Now" button without seeing the product in person. We've all been there, right? The fear of the unknown, especially regarding home décor, is real. But let me assure you, the fixtures I've chosen for the flip house have exceeded my expectations. They're not just fixtures but statement pieces that bring the room to life.

Now, let's talk trends. Farmhouse lighting is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Think distressed wood, wrought iron, and vintage-inspired bulbs. These elements work harmoniously to create a sense of nostalgia, a nod to a simpler time, while maintaining modern functionality.

1. Pendant Lights: These are perfect for kitchen islands or dining tables. They offer focused lighting and add an element of sophistication.
2. Chandeliers: Who says chandeliers are only for mansions? A rustic chandelier can be the centerpiece of your living room, creating a dramatic focal point.
3. Wall Sconces: Ideal for hallways or flanking a bathroom mirror, these add subtle elegance without overwhelming the space.
4. Lanterns: These can be hung or placed on a surface. They're versatile and add a touch of whimsy.

I'll be linking some of the fixtures that have transformed our flip house and some other farmhouse lighting options that have caught my eye. Trust me; you'll want to add them to your cart immediately!

If you decide to take the plunge and purchase any of these fixtures, please share your photos! I would love to see how these pieces elevate your space and make it uniquely yours.

I recently commented on someone's Instagram post about grief: "My husband's death changed every part of me. I'm like a stranger in my old life." The words struck a chord with many, so I felt compelled to elaborate. For weeks, I've been grappling with this feeling of being a stranger in my life, and here's why.

The Person I Was

James and I built a life filled with shared dreams, laughter, and love. We even took a foreclosure and turned it into a cherished home. But when I lost him, it felt like the person I was also vanished. I found myself asking, "Who am I now?"

A Wardrobe Transformation

While journaling last week, I realized something startling: my wardrobe has completely transformed since James passed away. Before, my clothing choices were a mix of comfort and style, often influenced by our shared activities and tastes. But in the nearly two years since his death, my closet has filled with pieces that the old me would never have chosen. It's as if I'm trying to dress a new character in the ongoing story of my life.

Redefining Home

Our home, a labor of love that James and I poured our hearts into, has also changed. I've spent considerable time and money redecorating, opting for styles and colors that depart from what we had chosen together.

The TV Show Analogy

If my life were a television show, it would be as if the producers decided to switch out the main character mid-season. I may look the same, but everything else is different. Everything has shifted in my clothes, home, and even how I approach my creative projects.

The Psychology Behind Change

Could these changes be a subconscious way of distancing myself from the pain? Perhaps altering my surroundings and appearance is a coping mechanism to say, "That was the old Tiff's life, and I'm not her anymore."

Final Thoughts

Grief is a complex, transformative experience that changes us in ways we can't fully comprehend. As I navigate this new chapter, I find solace in my evolving identity and the home that continues to be my sanctuary. And while I may feel like a stranger in my old life, I'm learning to embrace the person I'm becoming.

If you're a rustic, whimsical aesthetics fan, you won't want to miss this update on my charming wood pathway. Initially built in 2019, the path has found a new home by the Little Free Library. With the mulch area shrinking, this was the perfect opportunity to give the pathway a new lease on life. Despite some wear and tear, the character and charm of the path have only grown over the years. If you're curious how it fits in with the rest of the property, you will want to see this post!