Did you ever watch Full House?
Remember when Jesse was the cool uncle with the hair and all the rock and roll and the black leather jackets and the music career and women throwing themselves at his feet?
And then?
You went away for a season to get some popcorn and when you showed back up he was married to Rebecca with twin sons and walking around with a baby backpack on covered in spit-up.
You’re all like WHAT?
When did that happen?
I think that’s probably what many of you are thinking with this whole move thing. You’re like WHAT? WHAT HAPPENED. Last time I checked in she was living in a farmhouse in Kentucky. A farmhouse that she wrote poetry to and winding country roads that she drove down and twinkling stars in the night sky and sweet tea on the back porch.
And then you left to get popcorn.
And now I’ve moved to Texas and I’m talking about window seats and paint colors and moving back into the house I grew up in.
I get it.
I understand.
So let’s press pause. Let’s talk. Let’s discuss. Let me fill in a few more of the details so you aren’t wondering why I’m walking around covered in spit-up. I’m truly thankful that many of you have e-mailed me with questions and I want to try and answer everything and anything the very best way I can. If I don’t answer a question on here—just leave it in the comments and I’ll add the answers there.
Are you ready?
Let’s go.
What is happening to Thistlewood Farms?
I knew you were going to ask me that. I haven’t really talked about it because it makes me too, sad. I love that farmhouse with every single piece of me. It’s where this whole thing started. It’s where I discovered the me that I am today. If you read the first post about the move, you know that we moved back to North Texas because of family. Family that needed us. Family that was facing circumstances that were challenging and overwhelming. I won’t go into details because it’s their story to tell, but just know that we moved back to stand in the gap.
And now?
Thistlewood is under contract.
It’s going to be sold (along with most of its furniture) to a wonderful new family with new dreams and new hopes and it will start a new chapter in its farmhouse life.
*sigh*
But just between you and me?
Someone is going to have to pry my fingers off of the columns on the front porch when it comes time to say goodbye.
How are your kids handling the move?
It was a super smooth transition. They have tons of friends already here. They’ve gone to camp every year with our home church, so they already had a friend group in place here at home. And the best part? They are surrounded by aunts and uncles and cousins and grandparents every day. Each child is finding ways to fit into the community in his or her own way. For example, my middle son, Zack is helping to coach baseball for his younger cousin.
Of course, there are moments of sadness.
Moments when they miss their friends in Kentucky.
It’s to be expected. A big part of their lives has been lived under a Kentucky sky. We met so many amazing people along the way and learned so much and have grown closer as a family on those acres of bluegrass.
But now? They are happy and thriving and writing a new chapter here at our new (old) home.
Will your decor change?
A little.
I was farmhouse before it was ever a thing and I’ll always have a bit of farmhouse with me wherever I go. But this house? It’s a new space with new rooms and a different look and the dining room is telling me it wants french country chairs.
I’m actually selling most of my furniture with the house in Kentucky.
But guess what I’m keeping? All the stuff I found by the side of the road. All the pieces with stories. All the trash that turned into treasure.
And now?
I have WAY more curbs and roads to shop at.
Are you changing the name of the blog?
I will always be Thistlewood FOREVER and EVER.
It’s me.
Thistle is my nickname and Wood is my last name.
But the blog? I’m not changing it right now. There is too much change already in the air.
Maybe eventually.
I might be Thistlewood, Inc. or Thistlewood Home or just plain Thistlewood.
I’ll keep you posted.
What about your husband’s job?
He found an amazing job here in the DFW metroplex.
The kind that they write about in books.
He has an amazing opportunity to help people and change lives and make a difference in the war against cancer.
And he’s doing what he loves.
I know.
I see his eyes twinkling with excitement when he tells me about his day.
What color did you pick for the exterior?
The house was painted last week.
I can’t WAIT FOR YOU TO SEE IT.
They are finishing up all the trim today and hopefully, I’ll post pictures of it on Wednesday.
I cannot thank you ENOUGH. I read every single comment and you guys helped me so much. Not just the paint, but I’m now I’m re-thinking the awnings and thinking about shutters and I’m using some of the paint colors you suggested inside.
Stay tuned for the next chapter in how the painted house turns.
Your first book was all about your move—are you writing another book?
Funny that you should ask.
I am writing another book.
It’s already written and due in stores on March 6.
More details to come.
In the meantime, if you haven’t read it yet, you can still order So Close To Amazing by clicking here.
If you’re on the fence about ordering it. If you’re wondering if you’ll like it. If you’re wondering if your best friend needs it for Christmas. If you are wondering if it will make you laugh and sing and be reminded that amazing is just under your nose.
Don’t just listen to me.
You can read all the reviews here.
What is your first project inside the house?
What?
Projects?
You think this house might have projects? Oh, good. Me, too. This is the first one. This is where we are starting.
This is the kitchen.
I wanted to restore it back to the way it was when I was growing up. See that wall with the big hole where the refrigerator used to be? I used to eat breakfast at a table in that space. The kitchen used to be one giant room with an eat-in space. That space is actually where the introduction to the book started.
And now?
That wall is GONE.
I’ll share all the entire remodel in a little bit, but for now, this is what the kitchen looks like now.
You can see all the way to the doorway to the hallway.
Here’s the view from the other side.
The kitchen has a family room off of it that you can see in the background.
It’s where we used to watch television and there’s a space for games in the back.
Whew.
This was a lot.
I know.
That is a lot of changes for one little blog and one little family. I’m in the middle of it and I’m trying to keep up myself.
But I wanted to promise you one thing. The content of the blog won’t change. I will still tell my stories and re-do my rooms and share DIY’s and find treasures and shop the side of the road and talk to trash.
I’m still me.
I’m still KariAnne. The one who slipped running for the 90% off sale at Hobby Lobby. The one who slid down a hill in front of 200 people. The one who mismatches her shoes and trims her own bangs and wears red lipstick and hopes to make black velvet pants a thing one day.
I’m so happy you are here.
I’m so thankful for all the encouragement and laughter and e-mails and joy that you share with me every day.
I wouldn’t want to be on this journey with anyone else but you.
Truly.
Thanks for being the amazing you were meant to be. 🙂
Happy for you Karianne!! You know the Texas blogging girls love to get together. Hope you'll join us.
KariAnne, Oh, yea! Texas blogger get-togethers... Now, I'm thinking we need a Texas Blogger Christmas Party or Christmas Craft Day or Christmas Ornament Exchange (homemade, OF COURSE!) Well, maybe not homemade... mine could never be as cute as whatever you would have. Judith
All the hearts!!! I'm still so thrilled for you, and I think this new journey is amazing. Not close to amazing, Flat out, smack dab center, AMAZING!!!! P.s I'm so glad we all stepped away to get popcorn cause returning to this new was fantastic!!!
So happy for you that you have moved home. I am looking forward to your next decorating project. I am also very glad that you did not reveal any issues regarding your family. I like that you said it's their story to tell. Thank goodness for some privacy. Some of the blogs I have read in the past reveal simply too much stuff! Some blogs and social media seem to have lost their way. I am hoping that at some time people will realize that it's all simply too much information.
You are so sweet. I wanted to be respectful to them. Sometimes life is hard enough without everyone posting about it on social. :) karianne
I admire you so much for standing the gap. You are setting an awesome example for all of us especially your children. We started a similar adventure 6 years ago except I drive 700 miles one way when needed. Two years ago, I was on the road 24 weeks. Thank goodness you made the decision to be nearby. I ❤️ your blog and look forward to your new path.
I feel happier for you having read this, at first I thought you HAD to move back, but now I see your where you should be, happy for you and can not wait to see all the changes you will make....AND, btw people, the book is WOW, fab gift for yourself....as I did....or a friend, brillaint stuff...xx
Yes. It was our choice---one we made through many tears. But now I see it's all part of a much bigger plan. Thank you for your encouragement and don't worry about me---I'm happy wherever I'm planted. :) karianne
KariAnne, This move was clearly orchestrated in God's VERY big hands! It's good to read your blog with all of your positive writing in a world that is hurting. Congratulations to all of the wonderful things happening in your lives, and thank you for asking us to share your joy in your walk with Him. XO
Amen and AMEN. :)
Always a fan of the new start, the new year etc., I see your adventure as an amazing opportunity. I will enjoy following your progress through this new start. I am glad your children already have a friend group in the new home, that makes it all a bit easier. Have fun.
Wow! I thought I'd kept up with your blog--didn't even pause for popcorn. But this was all happening behind the scenes for... months? So strange! But I do wish you and your family all the very best in your new home.
Raquel, Yes! The foundation was being laid behind the scenes. I didn't want to say anything because I wasn't sure if it all would happen. Once we started down the journey it all fell into place super quickly. Thank you for following along! I appreciate you! :) karianne
I'm so happy for you. What an adventure this year has brought to your family. As someone with 3 kids with several moves under our belts (thank you US Army), I'm so in awe of your grace. Enjoy your new adventure. P. S. I heard velvet is making a comeback :)
Oh good. I'll help it along. :)
Oh, you darlin' girl, bless you. Bless you a thousand times. Isn't it wonderful that so many people are invested so much in your life that they'd barrage you with questions? It's because you've done such a good job of inviting people not only into your home but also into your heart. And of course you'll keep doing that, in your own inimitable way. I pray for smooth transitions for everyone!
Oh KariAnne! It's going to be amazing! Beautiful and full of your personality. I love where the kitchen is headed - a sentimental journey all dressed up in new finery! You've loved your Kentucky farmhouse well and the new family will too. Your memories there will be precious and like jewels to pull out as needed. But to have a new adventure! So exciting! Glad I get to be along for the ride! Hugs, Cecilia
I am thrilled for your new beginning. Truly I am. However, I cry for Thistlewood. Just can't help it. I thought you and Thistlewood would be around forever. Even though you are still you, and I understand that, I won't get to let my mind draw your descriptions of driving 75 miles to Target. Somehow or another I always felt like I was right there with you. I don't know what North Texas is all about. I only know Kentucky and Thistlewood Farms. I'm truly going to miss it. (Could this all be due to your excellent writing abilities and wonderful personality?)
I just finished your book and loved it! We are at the beginning stages of a huge "jump" (Arizona to Tennessee) and the timing of your book couldn't have been better in my life. I look forward to your next book and reading your blog about your childhood home.
Don't worry, Karianne - we will stick with you through old & new & old again! We also moved into the house I grew up in and raised our children there. The echoes of your childhood remain but you build your own family's memories to layer on top. So excited to see and hear about all of your new adventures = )
I love your blog, and how I missed the fact that you were moving is beyond me! What a great home. You grew up there? The bones are fantastic! Looking forward to your journey. And since we are planning a move from North Texas to AZ in the very near future, I'm all ears when it comes to moving tips!
Well I think you answered all the questions I had! Whew..... That house is gorgeous. Can't wait to see the outside painted and the kitchen remodel. Also so wonderful you could move to be close to your family and help out.
The book of our lives contain many chapters and this is the next one in yours. I'm sure it will have it's share of twists and turns, as that is how life goes. How you manage them will make your story interesting, that will not change even though your address does. We will miss the Farmhouse at Thistlewood, thank goodness we will still have Karianne! Best wishes as the pages turn for all of your family. Thank-you for all the updates and answers to pressing questions.
Whoa, wait. Black velvet pants aren't a thing?! Crap. I have two pair. Seriously...and they are my favorite. I guess I'll just pull a KariAnne and wear them because I want to AND because I look good in them. Can't wait to follow along on this adventure of yours. I'm jealous. Just wanted you to know.
What an amazing journey you are on. Enjoy the ride-including all the dust, noise and confusion. I can already tell that your old/new home is going to be incredible just like you!
So very glad that you are allowing us to be part of this new adventure - so looking forward to all of your wonderful posts. I remember when I moved from the country to a small town and the one silly aspect I fell in love with was having sidewalks again - didn't realize how much I missed them till I got them back!
So very happy for you a d yours. God is good, indeed.
karianne, it sounds like lots of fun and stress too...enjoy!!! the "new","old home looks like it has wonderful bones ...good luck to you and yours.
Wow, whoa, cool.
KariAnne, with tears in my eyes you are giving me courage to leave the home we spent 15 years rehabbing, and now all those improvements we made will benefit another family. Thanks for pointing the way, friend!
Karianne, So excited for your move to your childhood home in Texas! I hope since you will be closer to Waco that you can take your beautiful family to Homecoming now. I am also a BU grad! I am so curious where you have moved. I grew up in Texas and now live on a farm in Oklahoma. So miss my home state and my husband and I are going to Lexington next week end for the first time. Any suggestions? Can't wait for future blogs on your new adventure. Going to order your book right now. Have fun with your new projects! Happy for your family!
Oh my goodness! This is so exciting (thinking of new ideas and projects) and adventurous (an all new look with a little of the farm thrown in) and new (the house doesn't look like it did when you were living there) and nostalgic (let's get it to feel like it did when you were a bit younger)! I am so excited about the adventure. Thank you for sharing everything and answering every question. Looking forward to more to come....Rebecca
I have had a crazy busy summer but tuned in to read every post you have made since your announcement to move. And I must admit that my heart skipped a beat when I read you were leaving Kentucky. But you are leaving one amazing state for another and I can't wait to see how it will inspire your decorating choices. (I know it will be amazing!) Some day we'll probably see you on HGTV! lol I'm so excited and happy for you. It's always a good choice to be close to family and life is all about embracing challenges and following your heart. Blessings always to you and yours dear! I'm so looking forward to your future posts. You are an inspiration.
Always with you! Can't wait for the journey. What a lovely place for your family and wow, the memories
...oh and girl! Velvet is IN this fall! YAY!
I'll be so excited to see how your blend Farmhouse leftover treasures with Country French! Do we ever stop evolving from style to style? Have fun....enjoy the ride!
Black velvet pants and red lipstick. Your signature look. Own it, Rock Star. You are fabulous and loved. :)
Oh my I am dying! 😂😂😂 sisters we are. Love love love black velvet too! So excited for you! But I had such plans... When you were in my neck of woods for sporting events, I was going to feed you n yours so you could tell Me what to do w Terra.😉 looking forward to you decorating the new house.😂😜😂😜 Love farmhouse but always reminded me of the one we never got to build. That's when I found you. Plans change and life has upturns. So glad to hear kids are ok.. Worried about Zack in particular. Will miss seeing him Play. But yes family is ️️precious and there is no place like home. Your blog is always like going home too. Sisters we are.. Ty for adopting me. PS if you ever need anything else to redo or revamp this old Kentucky Home will always be waiting! 😂😂😂
Welcome back to Texas....😊
I wish you the best of luck on your new adventure. We moved from California to Oklahoma for three years and just loved it. It was so fun to explore. Unfortunatley we had to move back to Ca. (Family health). I also agree with you on the black velvet pants!
Congrats on your new home!!!we are truly neighbors, as I live in north Fort Worth also. Welcome!!! Here is my no 425-408-2585. I know it’s not a TX no , but I have had it for over 10yrs. Big hugs...
I just started following, so I’m excited to see how you are going to blend the old with the new. What an adventure. Good Luck.
Such an exciting new adventure! I'll sure hang on for the ride. SHOTGUN! Called it. I mean you need someone to hand you your lipstick or diet coke and swap handsome husband stories with. Your family might need a day off. So I'm totally up for it.
I don't know why it made me so sad to hear you were moving from Thistlewood Farms! It's your life, not mine, but I guess I'm that invested! But I'm so excited for your new adventure, and decorating a new place is so much fun! LOTS OF LOVE.
Texas???? How did I miss that??? I thought you'd moved to the Cape since you often mention that as 'home'. Am I nuts or what? I would love some clarity on that one, PLEASE....... I love what you're doing to your new "old' home.
I have to say your move was a moment of WHAT? for me. But, if there's one thing I've learned in my sixty-something years (and I've learned a lot!), its that change is inevitable. It doesn't have to be a bad thing. It can be a good thing! It's all in the attitude. But you know that. :-) Your comment about them having to pry your fingers off the front pillars reminded me of my grandmother when she sold her cabin high on a beautiful mountain in Colorado in the early 90s. She and my grandfather built it in the 50s and lived there 30- years. Come to think of it, she was a lot like you, Karianne! She always saw what could be and lovingly brought new life to old pieces. She was a salvager, a refinisher, a garage sale aficionado, and she didn't cook. Nope. She once said, "If it comes in a box with instructions, its my kind of recipe." She had just recovered from a broken hip when my sister talked her into moving into a retirement community. She broke it because she was carrying an old door she'd found to refinish, slipped and fell. She was 87 years old when that happened. She told me that when she signed off on the offer on her cabin, she lay awake all night trying to figure out how to get out of the sale. Years later, when I was caring for her in Texas, she said the move wasn't as bad as she thought it would be because it gave her an opportunity to get to know her extended family in way she wouldn't have had she stayed. We were grateful too. That's when she shared the wisdom of how attitude can effect the inevitable changes in our lives. She was 96 when she passed, surrounded by three generations of family who loved her dearly. Sorry for such a long comment but I just felt the need. ;-)
Oh my!! I finally picked myself up off the floor after the news of you moving......I think it helps to see your new home and get answers to questions too! I cannot remember the first day I clicked to follow you but certainly enjoyed your blog from the beginning.....I bumped into you at Hobby Lobby and was at our open house fior the book signing and then you were gone. (Poof)!!! BUT you are not really gone......💄
Karianne, I think that you are filled with grace and sweetness. I appreciate that you did not speak of whatever family issues brought you home.I also love that you shared the answers to so many questions. I am sure the new owners of the farm will not care one bit if you hang on the the columns for a bit. A tiny bit of your heart is there. Looking forward to the next project and adventure.
What is NOT being said says more about you and your family. I know you are a giver and if family needs something, you will make it happen. Don't keep the house as it was, make it a new HOME for your family! You have been here in another life, but it is all new to them. By example, you will lead and we will watch another lovely Wood home filled with love. Thanks for taking me with you on this ride. Best to you and yours,
So happy for you and your family. What an adventure! And...black velvet pants are in! So where them all you want. Even to bed. Heck, I just might do that too. Welcome home and have a beautiful day!
Love your blog and I look forward to seeing how you respond-do your childhood home. I ordered your book. It suppose to arrive tomorrow!!😊
Well, good grief, girlie. I take a break from your blog to have my knee replaced and recuperate, and you go from singing My Old Kentucky Home to Deep in the Heart of Texas! How exciting. How totally thrilling. Moving is always bittersweet for all concerned, but it sounds like your family is adjusting very well. I am so very happy for ya'll. (notice I'm speaking Texan, now :-) , And now we get to watch you yank out, tear up, hammer in and paint on a beloved piece of your history. Can't wait to see you whip it into shape. And as the song goes.....God blessed Texas with his own hand. Brought down angels from the promised land. Looks like Texas just got themselves another angel.
Beverly, It's my understanding that the Cape is her family's vacation spot,
I lived 25 years in a house I didn't like. It was my husband's when we married. We raised 4 children there. There are some wonderful memories there. We moved this summer to a new home which I am totally in love with. Change is good. We all change. It's wonderful to be near family and I'm so happy for you! I will miss your beautiful farmhouse but I'm excited to see what you do with your new home. I'm sure it will be filled with love and many more great memories!
Wow - the first thing to pop into my mind is what LUCKY BUYERS to get your lovely furnishings in the farmhouse. The second thing...what LUCKY READERS...to share your journey, compare with our own, and encourage and inspire each other during the process. Can't wait to read about each new DIY. Also looking forward to reading my brand spanking new book (that smells like the first day of school)..."So Close to Amazing." I've been saving it to read while lounging on a cruise ship at the end of the month. I will be the envy of every decorating minded lady around my chair and I will feel a little amazing myself! Such a show-off.
Love always reading about what's happening with you. Going to be exciting to see what you do in your new home. Thanks for sharing. I look forward to reading your posts each day. We lived in Texas for 15 years and I loved it!!
So much change and some of it bittersweet...but think of the new adventures ahead! Can't wait to share them with you! xo
You are doing the right thing! Faith, family, friends in that order Karianne. You know that. And now you have a new canvas to start with!!!
Change can be scary...any kind...but you will handle it with grace and charm and laughter...the rock within a storm...and just look at all the wonderful new opportunities. Sending blessings to you and your family and can't wait to read about all the new adventures. :)
I am just plain flat out thrilled for you! I'm sure this move wasn't easy...but with family waiting on the other end...it had to be rewarding. Sounds like everyone is settling in nicely...that's always a plus. Change isn't ever easy...but, sometimes it is necessary. But, I wouldn't expect anything different from your family. Old blue eyes and you have raised some pretty great kids! It will be fun to see how you transform your childhood home...and as always you will transfix us with your stories. I'm looking forward to those!! ;)
I'm so excited to see the changes you make in your home that holds so many special memories! I'm almost finished reading your book and love it! I hope to get you to sign it someday!
Love, love, love your stories and your blog, no matter where you live! Of all the blogs I follow, I've had you the Longest! Others come and go, but your stories are the Best! Can't wait to see what you do in your (new) house!
PS: GOOD FOR YOU. So many of us are making lifestyle changes to help our loved ones. My mom has Alzheimer's and I am handling her illness, finances, care...etc. It's a huge amount of my time and so much responsibility and patience. But...she's my mom...I will never regret one minute. I visit her every morning at her fabulous memory care facility for an hour before work and then stop on my way home and stay until I put her to bed. Weekends she is with us. Most evenings she plays the piano for all the residents (and staff) while I lead them in the old favorite songs and hymns. I can't sing AT ALL (fortunately, they won't remember an hour later! LOL), but it brings her and her "peeps" such joy. She has always been very social and was too lonely when she lived with my husband and me. Mom can't always remember exactly who I am...or what a straw is...and can't really converse sensibly anymore, but she can play ANY song she has ever heard in the past by ear if she just hears the first line (she has never been able to read music). Truly amazing.
SO VERY EXCITED for you and your family! FAITH & FAMILY first - all else falls into place! :)
So happy for you and All of your family! I'm sure you will be a blessing to them during their difficult time. Good news about the children and their friends and Your husband. As a cancer survivor I can tell you how much we all appreciate his work. I do have a question........are you living in the house during the kitchen renovation? For some reason a kitchen renovation seems worse than any other to live through lol!
Welcome to Texas, and you made my heart skip a beat when I read, "It’s already written and due in stores on March 6." WOO HOO!!!
I loved your farmhouse so very, very much but your "new" house is beautiful too. We bought my parents house and every time we renovated I thought how much my Mom would have loved what we did. Now we have decided to sell this house because it is just too big for just the two of us. Our boys have moved on and 5 bedroom are too much to take care of and we are both getting older. I want one floor and less to take care of. Please tell your Sailor that my Sailor has cancer so I appreciate all that he is doing. Good luck in your new home.
To me, the best part of this post is how your children will be around grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins. As an adult, I moved thousands of miles from my childhood home and my mom, siblings, etc., and my biggest regret is the fact my children missed growing up with the wonderful, large extended family I had back home. I think your children will be very blessed by this return home and being surrounded by so many loved ones. I look forward to seeing what you do with your absolutely amazing childhood home, also! Thank you for sharing your stories and your life with us.
In the Old Testament it is written "don't look back, God is doing a NEW thing" and after 43 yrs. of living in Europe & moving back stateside this past summer, I am working that thought! I am homesick for Europe but my feet (planted firmly in mid-air) are holding on to that promise. I have had several "yippee--yahoo" moments where I know that God is in the details---but each new day it is a workmanship of "trust & obey." You don't owe any explanations to anyone one KA---some of the pieces of your very exposed life belong only to you, to your family & to those w/whom you feel they should be shared. Those who are in tune w/you will accept that. I am sending you virtual hugs & the promise that you are in exactly the place where you are intended to be. ❤️
I had difficulty locating the end of the comments! I can see, when you have created the following you have with a blog, you take on an immense responsibility for your audience! It must be gratifying, however, to know so many people, including me, old enough to be your grandma, are not only rooting for you and your family in this transition but truly looking forward to all of the wonderful you are going to create in the process. Here's to your unflagging energy and optimism. It's a joy!
Your blog family has your back. Hop,skip jump or fall down gracefully,we are with you.
I love how you live passionately! But also how you have learned to sit in Gods stillness and wait on Him. I’m so glad you’re home!
Whew! That’s a relief! I thought I’d lost my mind! I read your blog everyday and for the life of me I couldn’t recall anything about a move! I was going to go to my doctor!😂 Yes, you’ll do just fine and so will your family. Your a lovely, happy person who will bloom wherever you are planted! Having your extended family nearby, it’s a real bonus for you, your kiddos and hubby. Looking forward to reading and watching all the exciting things headed your way! 👯👯👯👯👯👯👯👯. Yeah, I’m not crazy!😜
I love every bit of this post. I love new, exciting beginnings and let's face it, although it might be crazy in your house right now with construction and settling in, the excitement of getting to design all new spaces is nirvana for people like you and me. I am so happy for you and your family and will pray that the reasons that brought you back to be with family are not overwhelming and you can take them all one day at a time. I'm excited to see what you'll do in each of the spaces to put your own stamp on them and follow along every step of the way. Hugs friend!
Karianne, Thank you so much for taking the time to share an update with all of us. I appreciate you answering the many questions we have all been wondering about. It sounds like God has a plan for you in Texas and that you are willing to follow His plan. It is a blessing to be back near your family to lend needed support. I am happy your husband was blessed with a job that he loves and is able to help others during their difficult time. I love your blog and look forward to hearing about all of your new experiences and adventures. Exciting things await!
When you have the opportunity, would you please update us with the ages and grades of your children? And if they don't mind, would you also please share what their interests are at this point in their lives? Sadly, in the mix of everything I read, I have lost track of that. May you and yours receive the blessings that you give to others. Included at the top of that "others list" is me.
Good for you Karianne!!!!! Question.......... Are those drapes in your new dining room the same one's you had in your Kentucky dining room? I hope so! I love those drapes and I hope you brought them with you. I'm impressed they are already hung!! PS You will never regret this move. Change is good!
I've never really been friends with someone I've never met.... till you! Cant wait to read all the new chapters.... fabian
After reading this post, I am more content that the entire family is OK with the move. They are troupers and are a reflection of their roll models. Sweet twinkly eyes would move to the moon for you. Your house is so pretty but that farmhouse will be hard to let go. What kind of weather will you have in Texas?
Thanks for the update!! So you're in Kentucky at the moment while renovations are taking place in Texas? Love you "Thistle"!!! xoxo
KariAnne, thanks for sharing with us! You are always such a bright spot in our day! You will be blessed in your lovely new home, You and your dear hubby and family are exactly where you need to be. Blessings! Enjoy your new journey!
We readers of your blog are a nosy bunch, aren't we? I know that you made the right move for you and your family and that you will thrive in Texas. I'm actually a little excited about the French country look in your dining room. I was sensing a slight variation in your decorating even when you were still in Kentucky. It's important to not stay static in life. You and Marian from Miss Mustard Seed are in a similar place in life right now, aren't you? And on another topic ... why is your nickname Thistle?
So excited for you and your sweet family for all the happiness this adventure will bring you! I so appreciate that you're holding the "family reason" close ~ it is definitely not our business ~ but I do send best wishes and support in whatever challenges are being faced. Loved your Kentucky farmhouse, and can only try to imagine the sadness you feel at leaving it, But having lived many years, I know that your Texas home will become just as familiar and loved as Thistlewood Farms. And I'm going to especially enjoy watching your new/old experience, being a native Texan ~ we all have a strong bond! Saving your book for a much less busy time (I'm in my Seasonal shows now), I am anxious to get to it: I just know I won't be able to put it down once I begin. Blessings to you always, sweet lady. Very fondly, kj
Just having a VERY good feeling about all this, KA. I know this is serendipity and you ALL will be right as rain. It's a new chapter, and it's gonna be a very GOOD ONE! God's blessings to you. Hugs.
Thanks so much for sharing all of the information!!!! I know I probably speak for many of the girlfriends when I say "We were worried!!!!" We thought maybe some disaster had occurred😳😱. I know any changes to the blog will be wonderful, sparkly and entirely you😉👏!!!! I can't wait for all the new changes including the books!
I just love you! I'm so happy how the Lord has brought you back home, to your home! I think you should keep it Thistlewood. It's always like chatting with your very best friend and the whole wide world of forever endeavor when you write your blog posts! Xoxo
Wishing you all the best as you get re-Texified, Kari! God has a funny way of changing our plans and visions and growing us in the process, doesn't he? Love you, my friend, and will continue reading and cheering you on. xo Heidi
I love your courage to change. And I love your courage to stay who you are.
I have two questions Kari, Did you consider renting out Your farmhouse, until such time as you felt able or wanted to return? With the wonderful setting and privacy at Thistlewood, did you look for a home with more garden and open space outside in any other areas before your final choice? I just wonder if you will feel able to settle with the closeness of neighbours, and perhaps noise of cars etc.? Still very much looking forward to the new journey with you.
What a adventure you are enjoying. I can't wait for every post on the progress of your home, family, DIY projects etc. You go girl! Rock on.
Loved this posting today! Can't wait to see the weekly progress on your childhood home. I know I'm going to love it because I even love it empty and with the old paint! You make me laugh, and your blog is a joy to read. With your amazing energy, you'll have this project completed in no time!
So very exciting for you and your family! And by the way LOVE that house!! Can't wait to see what you have in store for it!
Can't wait to see what you do next as the house is gorgeous! I'm a dedicated follower--love your book and am so happy for you and your family. Blessings on your extended family, too, and I'm sure they're so happy to have you near. Such a kind and loving soul you are--I love your authentic-ness as you pour your heart and soul into your blog and your home for all of us to share. Can't wait hear about your new book and your rock those velvet pants as they ARE back and being a velvet lover since I was a little girl when every Christmas dress was velvet, for years, I wear mine any chance I can!
I keep starting my comments with 'WOW'. I'm saying it AGAIN today! Today's posting made me tear up. I love your optimism, your ability to change, grow, make things happen. I love your new house and look forward to decorating it with you. I really enjoyed the answers to all the questions I had about the move. I am so impressed with the quick decision making you have made in the kitchen rearrangement and on the exterior. I am genuinely excited to see which color you picked. YOU HAVE ABSOLUTELY HANDS DOWN THE BEST DECORATING BLOG IN ALL BLOGDOM!
So happy for you and so glad for me that you are not going anywhere. Seriously, you have no idea how much you and your stories mean to me❤️And that home....what a beautiful story you have to tell with it!!
I'm going to miss Thistlewood because it's so "perfect" to look at in every way. BUT I'm very glad that you are doing what you feel the Lord is leading you to do. That's the best way to live life and to reap the blessings of being just where the Lord would have you to be. he led you to leave Dallas and head to Kentucky and now He's leading you back again. What an exciting adventure. I look forward to all of the new updates in your new home with your family and welcome any news about how all of you are adjusting. Your new home is already beautiful and I know it's full of wonderful memories for you and many, many more to come.
This is going to be so much fun! You still haven't told me what color won the contest 🤔. Would you please email me the response? Much appreciated😙
Karianne....I wish you and your family peace and calm as you process this big change for all of you...with a little extra energy and stamina tossed in for good measure. God has a plan for each of us...right now he wants you in Texas. Your new home is lovely and does look like the home in Father of the Bride. You taught me so much with your Kentucky home and its relaxed style. I am excited to see your magic transform your childhood home.
How exciting! I'm trying to make a decision about whether we'd like to move and downsize, but I can't get past that my 3 children were born and raised here. I know - the memories are in my heart, but still....... Beautiful house you're moving into.....
Thank you for keeping us in the loop. We know whatever you do will be amazing. Happy for your husband's new opportunity, too. And, I thought black velvet pants WERE a thing. (I have 2 pairs. ). Prayers for your family's needs.
Oooooh...we have an exciting, new, adventurous journey to go on together! I'm all packed and ready to go with you...I can't wait!!!! Best of everything to you and your family...you deserve it! Hugs
I LOVE black velvet pants. In fact, I am wearing them to a work event Thursday night, even if the temps are still in the 100's around my neck of the woods. We freeze the heck out of the inside of buildings around here to compensate for the scorching heat so I will be fine. Looking forward to watching you remodel another home. Thistlewood was near perfection in my opinion so I think you were ready for a grand new project. And I promise you will never regret the decision to show up for your family. I have been called to do that several times in the past few years and I have absolute clarity that it was the right thing to do.
I am glad you will share your journey with all of us. I look forward to seeing your "city" style and how it will be different.
THANK YOU! !!!!!
KariAnne, Thank you for sharing your story. I believe God had a hand in this. And you know what I’m being a lil selfish I’m a wee wee bit tired of the farm look. Just a Tad! I don’t know I look at all my bloggers homes and I start to light up when I see mercury glass mirrored decor and the furniture more my taste. Maybe it’s because I was doing shabby chic when no one else was and I am the queen of spray painted decor. Oh the deals, the thrills! But now I’m 60 and I’m loving more trendy modern. When your said French my ears (eyes) perked right up! Ha You know I have to commend you and your husband for making the decision to help out. We’re only on this great earth for a short time and there is nothing, and I mean nothing like having your family all around for your own children. . It’s just the stuff life is made of. God bless you all, xox Chris
KariAnne,everything about this post is so, so sweet. How is it that new chapters are exciting and sad all at the same time! May your heart be full with each new turn of this adventure, and may your Thistlewood Farm's new family carry on all the love that you breathed into that home.
Thanks for bringing us along. So thankful that God is working out all the details, for you and your family as you follow His plan for your family.
While I'll miss Thistlewood Farm, I think you could live in a tiny home on wheels and make it inspiring for us. I look forward to every post about your "now" house. Thank you for taking the time to reassure us you'll still be blogging.
KariAnne, So excited for you and your family in this new chapter of your life. I hope our paths cross sometime here in Texas! Wishing you sunshine and happy days always!
When your family needs you as support there is nothing more important. We spent last year living in Dallas with my sister-in-aw after she was hit by a car. We wouldn't have had it any other way. I am so happy that your transition has been full of homecoming love and your family is close. Can't wait to see the French chairs in the dining room.
Woah! Texas tornado for sure! So excited for you and your family. Kentucky will miss you, but now we feel like we have family in the Lone Star State! Keep unleashing the AmaZing!
I LOVE A REMODEL!!! You're sooooooooo lucky. 😊😊😊😊
Every time I read your stories about your life I sit here with a smile on my lips and a tear in the corner of my eye. Your stories has become a part a my life and just think that a little more than a year ago I didn´t even know you existed. Amazing !!! Lots of love from me in Klippan, Skane, Sweden.
I guess I don't have the attachment other readers do to your home in Kentucky since I literally just found you. But, my goodness, your new "old" home has such great bones! Can't wait to see what you'll do with it. I need to catch up on your time in Kentucky too.
Just when I thought what else can she update with the Thistlewood Farmhouse, what will she do? I'm so excited to see all the new projects you have in store! Good luck with this new chapter in your family's life! Can't wait to see all the pictures and hear all the wonderful stories.
I am blown away..... BUT ALSO.... very excited for you and your family!! Can't wait to see the Exterior ... and I love that you referred to the rolling down the hill story... I remember that blog post so well.... and I busted out laughing ..... not AT YOU of course... but the way you told that story .... Well... you know!!!!!!!! What an amazing God we serve... He has gone before you and is daily working it all out for your good!!!! Love... love.. loved the book !!! Highly recommend it !!!!
I am so looking forward to seeing where your new journey leads you and your family . I know that it will be amazing in every way ! The remodel of your childhood home will be such a wonderful adventure for your loyal readers ! Can't wait to see your exterior paint color !!
KariAnne, it will be so much fun to see what you do with your home.. Such great bones and memories and possibilities. Can't wait to have girls' lunch now that you're back in Texas.
KariAnne, I'm excited for you! It's great to live close to family. I'm also happy to hear that you're willing to tweak your style...because this house is "classic" in style. It actually reminds me a little bit of the house in Father of the Bride. The version with Steve Martin and Diane Keaton. I don't think this house has met "."farmhouse.." It's a little more elegant, don't you think? But whatever you do, I'm sure it will be just right for you and your family. Smiles!
My moves ( I think there were 12 in my husbands' career) were always good. They let my spirit breathe. Best wishes to all of you. Look forward to your new posts, but be sure and take some time for yourselves to settle in ❤️
SO very excited for you and the new adventure for your family! I LOVE Texas! Enjoy!!
I’m so happy you gave us an update! I’m so glad everyone’s has settled in and have friends and jobs they love. I am so excited for you, of all people, to get to buy their childhood home! You talk so lovingly about your family and your memories that it really makes my heart happy knowing you are where you should be! I can’t wait to see this house become your home again! Best wishes always!
We have had some family issues ourselves that have demanded attention the last 2 months. But you can imagine my utter surprise today to read you have moved back to Texas! I totally understand that things can totally fall into place quickly. The family house is gorgeous, what a gift to live there again, I always loved your Kentucky home but at heart I am a traditionalist <3 If that was my staircase I would have a comfy chair at the bottom of it and sip sweet tea every morning and just admire it! Can hardly wait to see you fill those rooms! God's blessings to you and the whole family. P.S. I did not get to vote on the paint color but it would have been #2 so I just love how it turned out! ;)
Any color velvet, stretch or not, like red lipstick is always in style!
I'll say that as a person who HATES change-I'm jealous. Not of the change in your lives, but for the graceful way you're embracing it. Oh, and McKinney Texas. I grew up in north Texas, and have lived with my husband and family in Oklahoma for 23 years. Love it here and it's 'home' but several of my favorite bloggers live in McKinney and I keep telling my hubby I just know I'm meant to be there! We're just not sure we're meant to be there. 😃 So until and unless circumstances open us up to that-I'll continue reading about this charming area through you sweet ladies!
So, a hurricane came through my parts in florida and life happened, and i missed a few of weeks of my favorite blogger (which hasnt happened in 6 yrs!) and your life has moved!!! So happy for you! So, so, so happy you jumped right back in...when His time was right. Beautiful home. Before i saw the pics i wondered, "did she hang the burlap smoked curtains?!" Of course, she did! Blessings to you and your family!!!
If possible I will do my part to make ALL velvet pants a thing. Or anything velvet. I am obsessed with velvet. Anything that soft deserves it. <3 I've been a follower for so long that I am happy to be on this ride with you! I can't wait (but will anyway) to see how you make your child hood home yours! It seems like such an amazing place to work with.
I missed this one!! And you answered so many questions that we all had. Thanks for sharing. That Kentucky bluegrass will miss your family...each and every roll, baseball slide, cheerleading jump and basketball practice. So happy you have this chance at reviving every corner of that home. And maybe you will talk more often to it each morning because it recognizes your sweet voice and understands your heart . Simply amazing.
Hope everything works out for you and your family! It was such a delight meeting you and your twins at Sew A Lot in Lexington KY. They are so adorable- you are blessed! I look forward to more stories ( include the girls!). Love from Kentucky!!
Oh my cute little Thistle!!! Miss you friend and we have lots to catch up on :) Glad your move went well and you are ripping about the new place. Can't wait to see what you do with it!!!
Too bad you couldn’t take the Gatehouse with you. I loved it! But, on to new/old exciting things!!! Look forward to following this new journey you are on.
Congratulations! Just curious about the previous owners. How did you convince them to move when the house was not on the market?