Who is that woman behind that blog?

I always find it refreshing when a blogger I admire - one who seems to have it all together (perfect life, perfect family, perfect career) - writes about what is really happening behind the pictures of a clean house and an organized pantry.

I thought it would be a great idea to let you in on some of my deepest, darkest secrets (and some of my redeeming qualities), and show you that I'm pretty real, and have some R E A L issues too:).

I am a 42 year old mother of one daughter, Emma, and wife to my best friend, Todd. I am 6'1" tall, and while I used to be self- conscious about that, I now embrace it. I am hoping to teach my daughter the same. I'm pretty sure she will surpass me in height, and I want her to be comfortable in her own skin.


I grew up in Iowa, but have also lived in Nebraska, , South Dakota, Minnesota, and Florida. I currently live in Chicago,IL, where I work as an interior designer and help my mom run our home decor and window treatment store, White Street Market.


I like to have my fingers in lots of projects, so right now I am in involved in rehabs/redesigns/new construction/painting furniture/social media marketing/and more.

I am sarcastic. Period. If I'm talking, I'm making a smart comment. You will probably notice it in my writing. It's who I am:).

I am bossy. My mom can attest to that. Right, mom?

I am a procrastinator. The good thing about that is I do my best work at the last minute. Even when I try to plan, it's never as good as what I pull together at the 11th hour. The downside: I stress myself (and others) out...

I am not good at crafts. Crafts make me crazy. Messy crafts drive me batty. Glitter + glue= straight jacket

I'm a good listener when it comes to design. I can look at your house, ask you 10 questions, and have a pretty good idea of your style and how you live. I am a bad listener when it comes to remembering names and other vital information. (Does the good even out the bad? Just a little bit?) 

I STRONGLY believe that there is no one style that fits everyone. I know everyone can use a little sparkle, a little vintage and a little sleek in their decor.

I am the paint color whisperer. Show me a room and I will have a color palette for you in minutes.

I have a fear of being late. When my family goes to an event, I am always the first one there to get seats. They don't even worry about where they are going to sit. I'll be there a few hours ahead of time so they are in good hands :).

I am not a fan of crowds and loud noises. Pretty sure I am having a panic attack just typing that.

Most of all, I love to design. And I love to design. Did I say I love to design? There is nothing I would rather do. I am hoping that through this blog I can bring my love of design to a larger audience by offering virtual design boards, advice and tutorials.

So now that you know my deepest, darkest secrets, please don't hold them against me.

Sweet design dreams:),
White Street Market