Articles by Laura Gaskill

When preparing to adopt our kitty, I learned from the folks at the rescue organization that a few of our houseplants were toxic to cats and dogs — and since this particular furry friend enjoys chomping on plants, it was vital we remove these from our …

Whether you enjoy slow-cooked barbecue on a Sunday afternoon or firing up the grill for quick weeknight dinners, having a properly equipped space and well-maintained grill makes backyard cooking more of a joy. These tools, cleaning tasks and tips will…

You don’t have to have a full-size tree to make your house feel like a winter wonderland. Take your pick from these 20 ideas — including a hot drinks bar and bookcase wreaths — and get your home in the holiday mood, no giant tree required.

Our homes (at least the outsides) in winter can look a little sad once the trees have lost their leaves. It can be especially challenging this time of year because some of the usual curb appeal tips don’t apply. That’s why I’ve rounded up nine element…

Hot cocoa, plaid blankets, twinkle lights. If you’re ready to indulge in the best goodies and experiences the winter holiday season has to offer, you’ve come to the right place. Up ahead are 24 small things to savor. Read the list and then add your ow…

While it’s certainly true that in some regions sitting on the patio in midwinter is not realistic, for those who live in mild climates there’s no reason outdoor rooms must sit unused for several months. To tempt yourself onto the porch or patio, even …

A once-a-year massive spring clean may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you’d rather break up the work, here are some ideas for sprucing up your space this fall. From updating your book collection to cleaning up outdoors, pick and choose from these ei…

It’s easy to love weekend mornings (who doesn’t love a leisurely start to the day?), but weekday mornings don’t need to be rushed through. In fact, by reclaiming a bit of time for yourself in the morning, your workdays can begin on a note of inspirati…

When you hear the word “retreat,” what comes to mind — writing in a cabin by a lonesome lake, engaging in spiritual study or practicing yoga on the beach? How about doing a retreat in your own home? It may at first seem like an improbable idea (althou…

When you first move into a new house, it’s only natural to want to put your personal stamp on the space — after all, unless you built your dream home, it’s likely that the finishes, fixtures and paint colors were chosen according to the previous owner…