Author’s Note: This post has been updated, but it remains one of the most personal stories I have ever shared here.
Years ago, when my blog was still new, I shared the story of this house. That post has lived quietly in the archives for a long time, tucked away and mostly forgotten. While fixing links recently, I came across it again and felt the urge to revisit the story, not to rewrite history, but to see it through the lens of where life has settled now.
This house was the backdrop for raising a family, learning patience, and building a life that felt steady. It was far from perfect, and even today, I think about the things I wanted to change but never did. Even so, it was a good home. One filled with meaning, memories, and rooms that held more than furniture.
We moved to Sutton Place in the spring of 1993. The house looked very different then. The lot was crowded with trees in both the front and back, there was no real lawn, and curb appeal was not part of the picture. We bought it for the location and the size, and at the time, we believed we could manage it. Not long after getting the keys, buyer’s remorse set in. The list of repairs and updates was longer than expected, and the cost felt overwhelming. Looking at everything at once was too much, so I did the only thing that made sense. I focused on one project at a time.
Progress came slowly. Very slowly. Each improvement required planning, saving, and careful decisions. I enjoy DIY projects, but there were limits. Power tools have never been my strong suit, and over the years we relied on contractors and handymen to help move things forward.
The house was built in 1964 and still had its original windows and siding. The footprint never changed, but the house itself looks nothing like it did when we first moved in. Over time, most of the trees had to be removed. Roots caused serious plumbing problems, cracks appeared in the foundation, and damage spread to the patio, porch floor, and garage. It was necessary work, even if it changed the landscape completely.
Little by little, nearly every part of the house was repaired, replaced, or refreshed. Outdoor projects filled spring and summer months, while indoor projects became winter work. Installing hardwood floors on the first floor was one of the most satisfying changes we made. The living and dining room makeover brought everything together and helped the house finally feel finished in a way it never had before.
One of the simplest changes remains my favorite. Painting the front door navy blue felt like a risk at the time, but it quickly became one of those decisions that just felt right. Years later, I still feel the same way about it. Inside, every room was painted more than once. Neutral wall colors always felt right for this house, and they allowed family pieces and collected favorites to stand out instead of competing for attention.
In the beginning, this house felt unfamiliar, almost temporary. It wasn’t until we began making changes that it slowly started to feel like ours. Over time, it became comfortable and personal in a way that can’t be rushed.
Working from home, after years of leaving each day, changed everything. This house became the foundation for my work and for the life built around it. Focusing my blog on home and everyday living gave me direction during a season that could very well have felt unsteady.
This house required patience and perseverance. It asked for effort and flexibility. It also taught the value of reliable help when it was needed most. More than anything, it held life. Happy moments and hard ones lived side by side here. It was a safe place for family, a place to return to, and a place where daily routines mattered. At the end of the day, this was home.
In 2021, our family took a leap of faith and downsized to a smaller, more manageable home. You can find our journey HERE.
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Your home is lovely but better yet is how you ecpress your love for family and home.
I can relate to your buyer’s remorse. We looked for 18 months for houses before reconsidering and ultimately purchasing our current home. We are old house people living in a mid century home. But, I do like the floorplan, a lot. Our first project, besides removing zebra striped wallpaper and painting was to remove the disgusting, I don’t even want to think about what was in it, brown carpeting and replace it with hardwood. That single act changed my entire perspective. We have moved on to replacing the kitchen and are currently gutting a bathroom because the subfloor is rotten. The life of a home owner, always something to do. If we weren’t handy, we might not have taken on this challenge. So glad you have found happiness in your current abode.
Hi Ann!
I found your blog while searching Pinterest for solutions to my recessed picture window in my living room. We pretty much have the same window as you and I loved the bench you have! This post has really resonated and inspired me. My husband and I recently purchased our first home and sometimes the to-do list has me questioning if we bought the right house. Our homes look like they were built around the same time with a similar style, and your list of everything you’ve done looks nearly identical to our list of things we need to do. It’s hard time to find the time to get much done with three little boys under the age of 5 running around, but it’s motivating to see someone who has done it! You’ve definitely gained a new follower in me!
Hi Emily…thank you so much for writing. My kids were 5 and 8 when we moved here. It took me forever to get a project finished…but I just kept plugging away. It took years and years. Just take one thing at a time and keep breathing!
Thank you for sharing your perspective and how you have come to be comfortable with your home.
Wonderful post and your home is just lovely. As you said so well a house is a reflection of those who live in it and yours glows with love. Thank you for sharing .
I love your blue door! Your home is one of my favorites in the blogosphere. Is is always so welcoming and cozy. It feels like home. Thank you for inviting us in and sharing your wonderful story.
We are very much in the same situation as you are…without the blogging. Maybe that’s why I feel so comfortable here. We’ve been working on our home for 34 years…and still not quite finished either. But it’s a labor of love….thanks for the inspiration! ;)
I always enjoy reading your posts, Ann…..but I think this is one of the best you’ve written!
Your love for this home and your family really shines through.
Well said Ann and so very true for me too. I love your home.
I enjoy your blog because your home is beautiful, yet it doesn’t seem unattainable to me! Thank you for sharing how long it has taken! I often become frustrated and impatient with my decorating to do list. You inspire me to keep moving forward!
Beautiful home! Always look forward to your posts. Thank you for sharing.!