So, after putting it off for way too long, I’m finally pulling together some master bedroom update plans. Think of it as the grown-up version of nesting, but with a little more style and a lot less baby gear.

Start with What’s Not Working

Take a look at your space. Is it cluttered? Does the furniture work for your lifestyle, or is it just what you’ve had for years? In our case, we had mismatched pieces, limited storage, and lighting that was more “meh” than mood-setting. None of it made the space feel restful.

Define Your Vision

When designing a bedroom that’s both cozy and functional, think about how you want to feel when you walk in. For me, it’s calm, intentional, and inviting. Here’s what I’m incorporating:

• Neutral colors like soft whites, grays, and natural wood for a calming palette.
• Functional storage that looks good and helps keep clutter at bay (hello, new dresser and bedside tables).
• Layered lighting, mixing task lighting with softer, ambient lamps.
• Textiles that invite you in—plush bedding, throws, and a grounding rug.
• Personal touches like art and photos that make the room feel ours.

Cozy Doesn’t Mean Cluttered

One of the biggest misconceptions is that cozy equals crowded. Instead, think layered simplicity: choose a few quality textiles, a rug that defines the space, and decor pieces that bring warmth without overwhelming. Even one cozy throw blanket can make the whole room feel more inviting.

Keep It Functional

While cozy is key, function makes the space work day-to-day. That might mean adding a bench at the end of the bed for storage, choosing nightstands with drawers, or finding lighting that doubles as decor. The best cozy bedrooms are also practical—you’ll love them more if they make life easier.

Why It Matters

Creating a cozy and functional bedroom is about more than just decor. It’s about carving out a space that restores you at the end of the day and energizes you in the morning. For busy parents, runners, or anyone balancing the chaos of everyday life, a restful bedroom isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

What’s Next

I’ll be sharing updates as this project comes together, from thrifted finds to budget-friendly upgrades that make a big impact. If you’re working on your own bedroom, start small—one cozy throw, a new lamp, or a clutter-free corner can completely change the feel of your space.

Looking for more home inspiration? Don’t miss my post on How Thrifting and Reselling Save Money (and the Planet) and The Best Kitchen Hacks to Fuel Busy Parents.

The post How to Create a Cozy and Functional Bedroom appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

Let’s just dive right in!

BEFORE

Here’s what the kitchen looked like when we purchased the house in 2010! The house had a ton of potential.

Here’s a few before snapshots. After moving in we painted the cabinets, walls, updated the hardware and added a ceiling fan. Sorry about the mess. We realized we needed to snap a few before photos after we started clearing everything out. Plus, baby fog…

The other side of the wall.

Progress!

AFTER


Removing the wall really lighten up the space. We moved the door from the mudroom to kitchen to allow for the refrigerator and pantry. While I love the idea of an all white kitchen we added warmth with light gray lower cabinets and a marble subway tile backsplash. Extending the backsplash to the ceiling gives the kitchen a nice visual and add texture. Not wanting any transitions in the flooring we used Hickory hardwood floors throughout the kitchen, living room, entry and hallway. Oh, the barn door! While it’s currently unfinished I’m in love.

Since it was a load-bearing wall we had to include a post. Not ideal, but the wall is still gone.

The island is 7×4 feet and includes drawers/storage cabinets and a seating area. I love all the drawers!

The cabinet boxes are ikea and the doors are semi-handmade. The doors came unfinished at the time so we had them painted. Since installing our cabinets you can now purchase pre-painted doors from semi-handmade. Pro Tip: Have your cabinet maker/installer frame out the boxes instead of using the Ikea legs. While it might cost a tad more money upfront, in the long run they will be sturdier.

The countertops are a Carrera quartz and have very light veins. The lower cabinets are SW Rare Gray and uppers are white

SOURCE LIST


Hardwood Floors: Hardwood Bargains HAND SCRAPED NATURAL HICKORY
Backsplash: Floor & Decor Bianco Carrara Honed Marble Tile
Cabinets: Semi-Handmade doors DIY Shaker & Ikea boxes
Pulls: Lowe’s Satin Nickel Bar Cabinet Pull
Faucet: KOHLER Pull-down
Sink: BLANCO 441310 PERFORMA
Barstools: Target Trenton Saddle Seat Barstool
Kitchen Table: the Hubby made it 6 years ago!
Parson Chairs: Ikea HENRIKSDAL chair with a white cover. These are also 6 years old. I would buy them again!
Refrigerator: Whirlpool 25.2-cu ft French Door Refrigerator (we already had this fridge. I wouldn’t buy it again. I wish we had a counter depth fridge it would look much nicer in the space.
Oven/stove: Frigidaire Gallery 4.5-cu ft Slide-in Convection Gas Range (it does the job + looks nice)
Dishwasher: GE 48-Decibel Built-In Dishwasher (LOVE – so quite worth the $$)
Microwave: GE 1.6-cu ft Over-The-Range Microwave (it does the job + looks nice)
Coffee Maker: OXO ON BARISTA BRAIN 9 CUP COFFEE MAKER
Lighting: LED Recessed Lighting
Barn door: Knotty Alder Interior Barn Door Slab with Sliding Door Hardware Kit

The post The Kitchen: Before & After appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

Immediately I grabbed a wet cloth and started scrubbing. When it didn’t work I tried a multi-surface cleaner before turning to the internet. It’s amazing what you can find on YouTube, etc. Anyway, the first remedy that popped up was hairspray. Random.

Initially, I thought no way, but I tested a spot on the wall just in case it ruined the paint. I could always paint the walls, but the kitchen cabinets are another story. Verdict: It took the pen and paint right off. Needless to say, don’t use hairspray.

Next up was baking soda and water. You’re probably laughing, but guess what it worked and didn’t ruin the the paint or finish! Plus, it’s all natural. It also took off black rubber marks from the bar area!

So how did I use baking soda and water to remove the pen from the kitchen cabinets?

What You’ll Need:

• baking soda
• water
• sponge for scrubbing
• damp cloth
• dry cloth
• small glass or bowl
• spoon

How To Remove Pen Marks:

1. Mix the Paste: Add about 1/3 cup of baking soda to a small glass or bowl. Slowly add water, mixing as you go, until you create a thick, toothpaste-like consistency. If it’s too runny, simply add more baking soda.

2. Apply and Scrub: Scoop a spoonful of the paste onto your sponge. Begin scrubbing the affected area, using firm pressure. It might take a few minutes, so don’t be afraid to put some elbow grease into it.

3. Clean the Surface: Once the pen marks start to fade, use a damp cloth to wipe away the paste, followed by a dry cloth to finish. Repeat the process as needed until the surface is spotless.

This simple, natural method will have your cabinets, walls, or furniture looking like new!

Removing pen marks from cabinets, walls, and furniture doesn’t have to be stressful. With just a few simple ingredients like baking soda and water, you can tackle even the most stubborn stains without damaging your surfaces. This all-natural solution is not only effective but also budget-friendly and safe for your home. Next time a little artist strikes, you’ll be ready to restore your space in no time!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

The post How To Get Pen off Cabinets, Walls, etc. appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

Until then let’s talk about flooring. We landed on natural hand scrapped hickory flooring throughout the living room, kitchen and hallway. To make them feel a bit more modern we went with 7″ wide planks. After searching for months we purchased our flooring from Hardwood Bargains. They hands down have the best price for hickory without skimping on the quality Our installer even said the flooring quality was unbelievable. Oh and they were SUPER easy to work with. We would use them again! (No, I was not paid to say that) And a year later I’m still in love with the flooring.

Here’s a shot of the kitchen side of the remodel. (our exact flooring)

While I search for the perfect rug, couch, new barstools, etc., I’ll leave you with more flooring inspiration…

via

via

via

via

via

via

The post Natural Wood Flooring appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ShareTheHoliday #CollectiveBias

Can you believe tomorrow is December?! We’re in full holiday mode at Casa de Meyer. The tree is trimmed, christmas cards have been ordered and holiday baking has started. This time of year is full of  parties ranging from cookie exchanges to work dinners.

I love the idea of a cookie exchange. It’s a fun way to get the ladies together and exchange a few cookies and recipes. Typically when you’re going to a cookie exchange you’ll bring X dozen of cookies and take home the same. While 12 dozen cookies sound awesome that’s way too much for me. I prefer a cookie exchange where everyone brings 1-2 dozen cookies and you leave with a few of each cookie. Make sense?

Anyway let’s get down to business.

How to Prep for a Cookie Exchange [It’s unbelievably simple.]


1. Determine what to make and how much
This year I’m making Chocolate Caramel Turtles! They’re super easy to make ahead of time.

2. Determine how will you present your cookies
Personally I like using Rubbermaid TakeAlongs. They are the perfect vessel to house your delicious holiday meals/snacks when sharing them with friends/family and celebrating the season of giving.

Adding to the fun, Holiday TakeAlongs come in limited edition red, green and prints for the holidays and will be available in-store: 10/29 – 12/24

TakeAlongs product features:
➺ Quik Clik Seal keeps food secure and helps prevent spills.
➺ Soft lid grips the container tightly for a great seal, yet with a large tab opening is easy.
➺ Microwavable, top rack dishwasher and freezer safe.

3. Spread the joy
Now that your treats are made and you’re ready to head out the door, spice up your Rubbermaid TakeAlongs by wrapping it with twine and a fun tag. These will also make fun gifts for your awesome neighbors.


Now if you’re hosting a cookie exchange you’ll have a whole different prep list. We’ll save that for another day.

Ready to spice up your cookie exchange? Pick up Rubbermaid TakeAlongs the next time you’re at Walmart. They’re also perfect for all those Holiday leftovers.

For more great holiday inspiration, click here.

The post How to Prep for a Cookie Exchange appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

The best part? You don’t need a sewing machine or complicated craft skills—just a few supplies you can easily grab online.

What You’ll Need

To bring your flamingo look to life, start with the basics:

• Pink Tulle Skirt or Tutu – The star of the show! A layered tutu creates the perfect feathery flamingo effect. You can find affordable options here on Amazon or make your own with rolls of pink tulle.
• Pink Feather Boa – Wrap it around your shoulders, arms, or sew/glue pieces onto the skirt for extra volume. This feather boa is perfect for that fluffy, fun vibe.
• Basic Pink Top – A simple tank top, tee, or leotard ties everything together. Look for one you can re-wear after Halloween, like this shirt.
• Flamingo Mask or Headband – You can DIY a paper mask, but I love these ready-to-wear flamingo headbands that save time and add instant character.
• Pink Leggings or Tights – Practical and warm if you’re trick-or-treating outdoors. These affordable tights work great.
• Shoes – Stick with something comfortable! Ballet flats, sneakers, or even heels if you want to glam it up.

Optional add-ons: face paint, pink gloves, headband or even a mini inflatable flamingo floatie to carry for extra laughs.

Prep

1. Lay out all materials.
2. If making a tutu: cut tulle into 6–10″ strips (length = desired skirt length × 2).

Step-by-step

Add accessories: Face paint (a soft pink blush and black eyeliner for a stylized eye), pink gloves, or a small inflatable flamingo prop.

Make the tutu (no-sew): Fold an elastic band to fit waist. Tie tulle strips around the elastic using a simple knot (loop through and pull). Continue until the elastic is filled and skirt looks full. Trim for even length.

Prep the top: Try on your pink top. Decide where you want feather accents (shoulders, neckline, or pinned to sides).

Attach feather boa to shoulders (quick): Drape boa over shoulders, shape, and secure with safety pins through the boa into the top (or stitch a few hidden running stitches). For more permanence, hot-glue short boa sections onto the top’s shoulder seams—avoid glue near skin.

Add feathers to tutu (optional): Trim small feather clusters and hot-glue or safety-pin them around the waistband or scattered through the tulle layers for texture.

Create flamingo headpiece: Cut a flamingo head and beak shape (x2) from sturdy pink and black felt, craft foam, or cardboard. Draw a simple eye with a black Sharpie directly on the felt. Once finished, glue or sew the head pieces together and then the end of the feather boa/shirt. When you drape the boa over your arm, it looks like you’re holding a flamingo with its fluffy neck trailing down.

Assemble base outfit: Put on leggings/tights and the top; then step into the tutu and adjust fit. Secure the elastic so it sits comfortably.

Final shaping: Fluff tulle layers and arrange boa/feathers. Pin any loose pieces so nothing falls off while moving.

In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind flamingo costume that looks like it came straight from a boutique!

Why DIY This Costume?

Aside from being budget-friendly, making your own costume gives you control over fit, comfort, and creativity. Store-bought costumes often cost more, use cheap materials, and feel uncomfortable. With this DIY version, you can customize the color, length of the tutu, and accessories while keeping things fun and functional.

Plus, many of the pieces—leggings, tops, and accessories—can be reused after Halloween. That’s a win-win for your wardrobe and your wallet.

Quick safety & styling tips

• For kids: avoid small loose decorations; use stitched or firmly pinned pieces instead of hot glue near the skin.
• Use safety pins under the tutu waistband to prevent slipping.
• If using hot glue, let pieces fully cool before dressing.
• Want more glam? Add sequins or a light layer of glitter spray to the tutu.

Shop the Flamingo Costume Essentials

If you want to save time, I’ve rounded up my top picks for supplies below:

• Pink Tulle Skirt
• Feather Boa
• Flamingo Headband
• Pink Leggings
• Basic Pink Shirt

With these items in your cart, you’ll be ready to create a costume that’s as fun to wear as it is to make.

Whether you’re dressing up solo, planning a family theme, or helping your kids shine at their school parade, this DIY flamingo costume is sure to turn heads.

Pro Tip: 

If you’re shopping late in the season, order supplies ASAP to make sure everything arrives on time. Many of these costume staples sell out quickly around Halloween!

The post DIY Flamingo Costume: Easy, Affordable and Adorable appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

The hubs really wanted to paint the house this fall, but not without a lot of prep work first. I’m not just talking about scrapping, sanding, etc. I’m talking about a new front door, mudroom door, a few windows, replacing some boards, framing out the porch post and adding cedar shakes. WOW, that’s a lot of work! Enter our handy friend Steve — he’s been helping Nick out big time and even putting in work while Nick’s at his day job. Someone has to pay for all the work

Here’s the current state of our house….

Trim: Extra White | Body: Repose Gray | Peaks: Gauntlet Gray

Home Doormat

Without further adieu some inspiration!

via

via

via

via

The post Giving Our House a Facelift + Paint Inspiration appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

So let’s kick things off out of order because that’s how I roll. Since we’re wrapping up our backsplash installation it’s only fitting I chat about backsplashes [for sneak peaks check out my IG stories @Tiara_Wasner or snaps @tiarawasner]. Then we’ll get back to the beginning next time.

I’m not going to lie picking a backsplash was hard. Like really hard. As in it took me a year to finally pull the trigger, but I’m happy with it [mostly]. While I knew white subway tiles would  be safe and probably look the best EVERYONE is doing it. I wanted our kitchen to be different, but not over the top. And no I didn’t go with glass — not a fan at all, sorry. Nope not sharing the reveal today, but here’s the idea.

A few backsplash reads:

– CHOOSING KITCHEN BACKSPLASH TILE
– How to Choose the Right Subway Tile Backsplash : Ideas and More!
– A Backsplash Bash
– More Tile Tips
– Everything You Could Want to Know and More

The post It’s all about the Backsplash appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #CompleteWithGlade #CollectiveBias

The post How to Create a Succulent + Cactus Garden appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.

When we purchased our house in August 2010 we always planned  to remodel the kitchen one day. Seriously though, take a look at what we walked into.

To paint a better picture. To the left of the island are more cabinets, the refrigerator and a wall dividing the living room and kitchen. Behind the camera is a equally large space otherwise known as the dining room.

We immediately added a dishwasher and eventually painted the walls and cabinets. For the last two years our kitchen has looked a little like this. It’s not ideal, but it works.

Here’s a view of the other side of the kitchen. Yes, there are two massive sliding doors looking at our neighbors fence. I now have sheer currents hanging, which helps.

After going back and forth with our contractor and structural engineer we finally applied for a building permit.

Lesson learned: Sometimes to get things done you have to follow up daily. Originally we were ready to submit for a permit early august, but our contractor wasn’t in a rush because he didn’t have time to actually do the project. After numerous calls and emails this was finally communicated with us and a month later the permit application was submitted and the contractor informed us he would no longer be finishing the project. Big Bummer and huge wench in our plans especially with a baby on the way. Well we’re sucking up our frustration with the company and moving forward. Guns blazing.

So here we are, October 1 with a plan, a permit, and a few appliances — but no contractor. Where do we go from here? We have most of the materials picked out, but just need to order them. But before anything is ordered we’re on a mission to hire a new contractor! We have a list of five potential contractors and hope to have three bids by next week. Fingers Crossed!

Stay tuned the Meyer Haus is getting a kitchen face lift!

Since I can’t part without a little kitchen inspiration here’s what we’re going for.

P.S. If you’re a brand or contractor looking to partner I’m all ears

via

via

via

The post Kitchen Confessions // Moving Forward appeared first on a Happy Healthy Home.