Quick note: Tomorrow (Saturday) we’ll be in Dallas at 11am at the West Elm on 5307 East Mockingbird Lane for cookies, cocoa and a book signing (more info here). We’d love to see ya there!
We’re back with a little book/life/tour update (#warning it’s long). Admittedly, it’s sooner than we had originally planned (our last one was a week ago), but lots has happened and we’re just brimming with news and pictures so we’ve basically overflowed. Somebody get a mop. Or maybe a tissue. Because we’ve gotta start with some crazy awesome / amazingly humbling news. We just learned that our book has become an instant New York Times bestseller. I can’t believe I just typed those words. It’ll actually be printed in the paper on 11/25, but this is a sneak peek image that we got. And yes, we totally called our parents and Sherry had a good cry (and I got something in my eye, but no sir I wasn’t crying). Then we laughed for at least three minutes about book #10’s title. #catpoetryforthewin
Sherry and I are still new enough to this publishing world that we don’t fully comprehend how these lists are crafted and what exactly it means. Though we’re certain it means one thing: we have the best readers ever. Because this was all thanks to you guys. Whether you’ve purchased a copy, shown up for a signing, or even just left an encouraging comment back when we were starting this whole adventure – we owe you a giant fist bump for showing so much love and support. We couldn’t have done it without you. Seriously. And if we’re being honest, we still think this might be a long and elaborate dream sequence…
Speaking of signings, we figured we should catch up up on some of our latest stops (or are we just dreaming about them?) since happenings from yesterday are already starting to get blurry in our cookie-and-cocoa-riddled minds. So let’s pick up where we left off here. We flew back from Boston to Richmond last Thursday, caught our breath, and before we knew it found ourselves at our first hometown event in Richmond called “R for the Holidays.” R.Home is a local shelter mag and we were completely surprised when they asked us to be on the cover of their Nov/Dec issue (and even more taken aback to see it blown up so big at the event)… let’s just say we both made faces like this:
Back in the day we wrote a DIY column for them and we’ve actually attended every R.Home for the Holidays event since its inception just as guests, so it was completely surreal to be speakers for the night. Oh, and how cute is beansie on that cover picture? We couldn’t wrangle both Burger and Clara simultaneously, so Burger ended up being represented by the sparkly chihuahua ornament in the green bowl that Clara’s actually reaching for in the photo. You can read a snippet of the article and watch a quick behind-the-scenes video here (and see a bigger picture of the cover, to get a glance of Faux Burger here).
Oh and Sherry wants me to tell you that when we shot the “Clara reaching photo” back in late October (here’s another Clara reaching pic, just because it seems to be her theme) she had waaay too much fun decorating those built-ins behind us for Christmas (they called to request that we do that since it was for the Nov/Dec cover). So they still mostly look like that and when we get back from this tour she’ll probably just “add even more Christmas.” #imarriedachristmaself
Anyways, back to the event. You may have heard that this is where we auctioned off some of the projects in the book. It was a great way for us to put some of those DIYed furniture and accessories to good use while also supporting a local cause (The School of Richmond’s Ballet which gives dance lessons to children who otherwise couldn’t afford them). We put a bunch of items up for auction (among them were two desks, two chairs, a bookshelf, a mirror, and a rug) and as we mentioned here, we later found out that our little auction raised $500 for local kids. Woot! Here’s Sherry making sure there aren’t any bugs hiding in the drawers before the auction. #keepingitreal
The evening started with a talk by Adam Roberts who turned his blog, The Amateur Gourmet, into a seriously beautiful cookbook called Secrets of the Best Chefs. In short: he was brilliant, inspiring, and hilarious. Then we went on and chatted with everyone about seven DIY lessons we’ve learned (many of them, the hard way). We definitely hope to link to a video of our chat when it’s up on R Home’s website, so we’ll keep you posted. In the meantime, here’s the synopsis: we were nerdlings, we over-shared, and the crowd was awesomely smiley. #bestmustacheever
With both talks wrapped up, we turned to the signing portion of the night – which is quickly becoming our favorite part of these things. We get to talk to people, take funny photos, and have conversations like: “Did Katie Bower have her baby yet!” “Nope, not yet – we just talked to her an hour ago!”
Amidst many familiar Richmond faces, we got to meet tons of new friends – like Hallie, who won our “trip to Richmond” giveaway last month. If any part of you wants to spew bile in her direction for winning, know this: she was sweet and bubbly and genuine and a thousand other nice words. She invited her mom along for a whirlwind weekend in RVA (Hallie was flown in from St. Louis and her mom was flown from Jacksonville). Sadly our hang out time clocked all of five minutes, but we later heard that they had a blast doing all sorts of RVA activities around town.
This woman gracefully accepted Sherry’s blurting compliment of “You look just like Meryl Streep!” She said she gets it a lot and even has a Meryl reference on her license plate. So Sherry insisted that we get a photo so we can pretend that we really met the star of classics like 1994’s The River Wild (arguably her best rafting-themed movie to date).
Along with a smattering of ceramic animal signing requests, we got funny invitations like this one, which was: “please sign a onesie for my baby.” Sherry opted to put a baby-sized hammer near the hand hole. Naturally.
And once again we enjoyed the kindness / craftiness / general awesomeness of our readers, who brought fun things like this Justin Timberlake bobblehead (there’s something in the box, if you know what I’m saying). It’s an inside joke at their office, apparently – and they wanted to pass him along to us because, well, he’s small and ceramic. And check out the awesome sugar cookies that arrived sporting Burger’s likeness.
When Richmond wrapped up, we hit the hay and about 12 hours later on Friday afternoon we found ourselves flying over the fair city of Chicago!
In Chicago we crammed in a little blog activity before our West Elm event the following day. We actually crashed a familiar home that you may know from a certain blog named Making It Lovely. There’s a full House Crashing post to come, but let’s just say that it was incredibly cool to finally meet Nicole and her family, but incredibly nerve-wracking to photograph the same spaces that Nicole captures so beautifully herself. But we hope you guys enjoy seeing some different angles of a house that so many of you already know and love.
Before our event the next afternoon at West Elm, we darted out to take a tourist-tastic photo in front of Chicago’s famous shiny bean. Sherry loves shiny things and we both have a fondness for a good bean, so it felt like a no-brainer.
Little did we know, while we were out squeezing in a sight or two, the line was already forming over in Lincoln Park. Christina takes the cake for most prepared. She drove overnight from St. Louis and camped out starting at 5:30am (for a 1pm start time). She retells her travels much more hilariously than we ever could on her blog. We were just happy to know that after all that waiting she wasn’t disappointed when she learned that we weren’t an iPhone or Harry Potter movie. Thanks again Christina!
The Chicago folks rocked our socks – both the West Elmers (or “Elmers” as we’re learning they’re called) and the readers. Even with a freak thunderstorm (a theme of our tour = weather events) thankfully most folks stayed dry and enjoyed toasty warm cocoa and cookies. There are too many good stories from the stop to cram in here, but we’ll share a few highlights. There was this bride who sent a virtual greeting from her hairdresser as she got ready for her wedding that day…
… and these sweet DIYed items, like a sparkly Burger portrait and a homemade horse puzzle (it was made by the fella in orange who’s a high school shop teacher). Clara and I have already had some good times putting that horse together, btw.
And sadly this picture doesn’t do this gift justice. It’s a beautiful handbound book featuring all of Clara’s photo project – from Week 1 all the way up to Month 29! So thoughtful. #yessherrycried
And how’s this for a cute story? Before coming to the event this gentleman surprised his girlfriend with our book at the shiny bean and inside the front he wrote – wait for it – a proposal! Yep, these lovebirds got engaged that day and our little book got to be part of it! Then they came to our signing and told us their story. Amazing.
Amongst many fun photos, there were ceramic animal milestones like reuniting with dearly departed Ramsey‘s twin.
And this group that requested a crazy picture. I think we achieved it, right?
And it’s starting to become a tradition of sorts to get an “End of the Line” group picture, to celebrate the people who were über patient. We love you guys!
The event wrapped up just in time for us to race to O’Hare and catch a flight that would get us back to Richmond late on Saturday night. While we waited at the gate, I took care of a little business – writing Granny a postcard from each of our stops. To date we’ve sent her eight from each of our out of state events (she receives one every other day or so).
Sunday was a “rest day” that we begged our publisher to put into our schedule (didn’t want to be away from Clara & Burger for too long) but it turned into more of a catch up on laundry, cleaning, and grocery shopping day. But since Richmond was nice enough to be 70 degrees, we were sure to sneak in some quality Clara and Burger time since they’ve been holding down the fort (with the help of my parents) while we were away. So there was some fun at the park and we went on a nice walk and even unpacked our suitcases just in time to pack them again for the next day. Yup, Monday morning brought another early morning departure through Richmond International Airport. And this time we were putting the “International” part to use and heading to our stop in Toronto, Canada. Hello CN Tower! My, what a tall antenna you have.
We didn’t actually make it up the tower (Sherry had been before and we’re both somewhat heights-averse enough to agree on admiring it from below) but we did have fun with some moose friends (or enemies) in the gift shop. The mountie moose was much less aggressive, fyi. #lookatthatsmile
We also enjoyed some simple pleasures like this. Yup, I’m still ten at heart, posing under a sign with my name.
Our Toronto hotel was pretty awesome (maybe they’re all amazing and non-chain-y up there?). In fact it was so awesome that between it and a cool restaurant that we stumbled upon, we’re actually going to crash them in a future post for you guys (Hotel Crashing? Restaurant Crashing?). But since we know you love a preview, here’s the double-sided glass shower in the middle of the room. It actually had blinds that you could close for more modest showering if you wanted to… #didweordidntwe
By evening it was raining (which didn’t surprise us at this point) and we hit up the Toronto West Elm for that night’s signing. The Canadians that we met (along with some Americans that drove up from NY) proved that friendliness and generosity don’t just live on this side of the border. Folks brought wonderful stuff like maple donuts (my FAVORITE) and this beautiful worm watercolor for Clara. Can’t wait to see the look on her face when we give it to her this Sunday.
We even had our very first FaceTime “guest” in Toronto (it’s a fun surprise when a face on a phone starts smiling and talking to you out of nowhere). We took a picture holding the phone and had fun posting “together.” Good times.
Oh and Sherry met her Canadian twin. Maybe not so much in the hair / height department, but in the blazer / striped shirt / skinny jeans area they’re practically born from the same egg.
Speaking of born… this was perhaps our favorite photo of the night. This mom-to-be supplied the signs so that Sherry could help squash any pregnancy rumors for good (and so she could announce her own exciting news).
And speaking of sherry’s blazer, she has been meaning to tell you guys that yes, it’s the same one for every signing (and yes, it’s from Target). Her philosophy is that it’s like when someone wears the same jersey for every game. Her blazer gets to travel the country and she changes her earrings, shoes, and the shirt underneath. So there you have it. #mywifeisweirdbutiloveheranyway
A funny thing happened in Toronto where folks in line somehow received the instruction to outline their own message in the book in addition to the post-it that spells their name for us (the usual drill is that folks spell their name for us, but we write the dedication ourselves). This accidental self-imposed “tell us what you want us to say to you” method created a few awkward moments, but more often than not people had fun with it. Like Kaylee and Mike who suggested a Mad Lib style entry for Sherry to fill in. I believe someone also tricked us into inviting them for Christmas dinner and another couple had us proclaim them to be our BFFs for life.
When the event finally wound down (and the rain stopped!) we were sufficiently pooped for the day and couldn’t muster the energy to go sit in a restaurant for dinner. Fortunately we had saved up our daily food allowance and our hotel had room service that included the $9 Canadian staple poutine (french fries + gravy + cheese). It was awesome. And I ate entirely too much of it. It was actually only our second time ever getting room service, so it was a pretty memorable night – even if it was just nine bucks worth of fries covered in cheesy gravy.
The West Elem signing wasn’t our last stop in Toronto though. We’d been invited to do a short segment on Global TV’s The Morning Show with about 20 hours notice. I’ll admit I hadn’t heard of it being from the states, but it felt roughly the equivalent of Good Morning America or The Today Show. Let’s just say, equivalent enough that I required make-up and we both got skittish and clammy (kinda like how Burger gets around cats).
We’ve never done a big show like that LIVE so we were admittedly quite nervous that we’d screw it up and immediately be asked to leave their country. Add to that equation that the props we had shipped didn’t arrive as planned so we had to improvise with about 10 hours notice. The hurricanes that you see below were borrowed from West Elm the night before at the very end of our signing and we scrambled to cobble together some filler with things from the grocery store (lemons, limes, pistachios, apples, etc). It was all assembled backstage moments before we went on…
So now that we’ve concluded our whirlwind week, we’ll leave you to enjoy your weekend. But wait. We still want to pucker up and say “thanks! we love you!” one more time. Without you guys there would be no book. There would be no signings. And our names certainly wouldn’t be on that crazy list at the start of this post. So yeah. Rock on you lovely people. Words can’t express our gratitude (or how surreal this entire ride really has been).
Anyway, we’re wrapping up our biggest week of tour stops tomorrow in Dallas, TX which means we’ll have another update for you about our stops there as well as in Minneapolis and Houston in another week or two. We’re having such a blast meeting you guys and have definitely done our darndest to keep the blog up and running while we’re gone, so thanks again to everyone for bearing with us and saying such kind things and otherwise being a huge part of making this all happen. #seriouslyarewedreaming #ifwearedontwakeusup
Psst- Some people have asked how they can get signed copies of our book if they don’t live near a signing stop, and now an awesome local book store here in Richmond called Fountain Books is shipping them to anyone who’d like one, so here’s that link for ya.
Amanda says
Whoop! Whoop! Congrats, guys – this must feel SO surreal!
Carolyn says
Congratulations guys!!! You totes deserve it! The book is fantastic and uber inspiring and it was so awesome to meet you two in RVA (I was the sign the ceramic bird page girl – you think you guys are awkward, I think I can give you a run for your money). And, though through the blog you can just tell how sweet and adorbz you guys are it was so great to see that confirmed in your little talk and signing. Thank you for writing such a wonderful book, and for doing the event and just being such inspirations in general!
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks so much Carolyn!
xo,
s
Sunny says
Congrats and enjoy it! You guys are awesome!
Angie says
Whoop! Whoop! Just got my copy in the mail on Tuesday!
Stephanie S says
So happy and proud of you guys, especially since I’m a RVA-er.
Mary says
Not to be the awkward Canadian or anything…. but were you perhaps referring to the RCMP(or Mountie) Moose when you specified “Ranger Moose”? Lol, I read that sentence waaay too many times before I figured out what you were referring to!
YoungHouseLove says
Haha yes!
xo,
s
NancyO says
Every time I hear it’s a long post, I’m like – there’s no way I’m reading this all. I have 5,000 emails to respond to and actual work to do.
But, I read it all.
I cry (especially at the proposal)
I laugh.
And, I wish you made a stop in Denver.
sounds like fun traveling.
YoungHouseLove says
You’re so sweet NancyO!
xo,
s
Emma (Broke Ass Home) says
You guys are so great. My copy finally came in the mail and the night consisted of yelling at Nate to leave me alone while I curled up on the couch with a fluffy blanket and a dog or 3.
I hope everyone is doing projects to put in our link party! (deets here: http://www.brokeasshome.com/2012/11/diy-doggy-haircuts-something-for-you-to.html)
Karen F says
WOW you guys! Where to begin?? NYT bestseller! “DIY empire”! Live TV (you were great, btw)!
I think my favorite part, though, was the postcards to Granny. Seriously, how sweet is that. You are the real deal, guys.
Also, seeing all the lining-up craziness makes me super thankful that the turnout in Ridgewood was down, due to the hurricane. I definitely would have lined up for hours to meet you both, but I’m glad I didn’t have to! :)
Also, Sherry, I think you are super smart to have a “uniform” – I know I could seriously make myself crazy trying to figure out what to wear to all these events. Love it.
You deserve all of this – so happy for you! Hope you get some time to rest soon (and enjoy Burger and Bean, Thanksgiving, and decorating the dining room built-ins!)
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks Karen!!
xo,
s
Ann L. says
OMG! The biggest congratulations ever! You totally deserve the acknowledgment — keep up the good work. And Happy (early) Thanksgiving!
Belinda says
That is the. Most. Awesome. News!! Congrats, you guys deserve it!
Danielle E says
Congratulations!!! That is so exciting about the NYT best seller list! I was hoping that you guys would end up on it. You deserve every good thing that has been happening. I hope the rest of your travels are safe (and just as fun) :)
Thanks for being such a huge inspiration to all of us.
mary @ B&Gjournals says
its so exciting to see how much fun you are having and how much fellow readers come out to show you love. congrats on a very well-deserved NYT bestseller placement!!
Jill says
This is amazing!!! You guys work SO hard and deserve every. bit. of the success you’re having. Thanks for always being sincere, keeping it real, keeping it funny, and providing all us readers with endless inspiration and entertainment. Can’t wait to meet you in person in DC! I’m totally going to clam up and be unable to talk, so wanted to write these things now! haha
YoungHouseLove says
Aw, we can’t wait to meet you Jill!
xo,
s
Sarah W says
You know, I thought it was weird in TO when they asked us to write the inscription for you, but I haven’t been to a book signing before so I figured it was just like a thing that people do at book signings. Oh well!
Thank you so much for doing all this work to visit your fans throughout North America. It’s been kind of a bummer of a past few months (without even hockey to look forward to! What’s an Americanadian to do?) so your visit really brightened things up. I’m sure I can speak for all of your fans when I say that we really appreciate it.
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks Sarah! It was so nice to meet you!
xo,
s
lauren w says
It was so fun seeing you in Houston last night! Hope the city treated you well!
YoungHouseLove says
We had the best time!
xo
s
Ang says
Omg CONGRATS on being a bestseller! That’s so exciting! I am getting super impatient about waiting to read your book. I’m anticipating it appearing under the Christmas tree… Unless of course you guys come to Philly before then… #dudegetonthatalready
P.S. I have an almost identical picture of my hubster John with the street sign! #mustbeajohnthing
YoungHouseLove says
Hahhaahahahh! Hilarious!
xo
s
Jessica says
Wow! Amazing news! Congrats to you guys on all of your success. :)
Laura B. says
How does it feel to see that RHome said you built a DIY EMPIRE?! I bet you got giddy.
YoungHouseLove says
Ahhhh! John spewed water out of his mouth when he saw that. So I would say that “we choked… and then got giddy.” We still don’t think it’s an empire though, but it makes us laugh!
xo
s
Christi says
Congrats!!!
You guys are the real deal and it really shines through!
I LOVE the hotel crashing idea!
Just remember to enjoy each minute, you guys deserve it.
Katharine says
Congrats on the NYT honor!
And I wish you had a video of when Sherry saw those Burger cookies in RVA! It was priceless!
YoungHouseLove says
Hahaha!
xo,
s
Lisa S says
I’m so happy to see your success and that you are having so much fun with it! I’ve been following you guys for years and years and I feel pumped for you to the same extent I would for a close friend! You’ve worked hard and totally deserve it all!
Jen says
I went to the book signing at West Elm, but due to the fact I had my two year old son with me we couldnt stand in line. I have to admit I was a tad stalker-ish as I took a picture of you two from behind to just have proof that I was there. Really, I am not creepy, just a huge fan that preordered this awesome inspiring book and wanted to say thank you for writing the blog and the book. You inspire me all the time.
YoungHouseLove says
Aw you’re so sweet Jen! So glad you got a picture of my frizzy ponytail. Hahah! And so glad you came out! Clara never could have made that line, so we totally understand!
xo
s
Jennifer Harrup says
Oh I think I remember you Jen! You and your husband were right behind me in the beginning and then I left the line for a minute and came back and was wondering where the cute little two year old boy went! I feel for you…I also saw a gal who had almost made it to the inside of the store with her baby- maybe around 6-7 months?? And they were getting fussy so she left the line and said “alright alright, we’re going home”. Oh man…that had to be rough. I had my four month old with me and I never could have done it if my mom and my husband hadn’t been there…sad that it takes 3 people to baby-wrangle!
Kara says
eek!! I’m super excited and nervous to meet you guys tomorrow here in Dallas!!
Will it be crowded? Will there be enough books?!? I don’t know, but I’m getting there early just in case!
YoungHouseLove says
There are always books there, not to worry! It’ll probably be a little crowded but we have lots of fun!
xo,
s
erin says
Congrats and thank you for helping to put Richmond on the radar. Between you and Spielberg, we have some pretty awesome RVA cheerleaders!
I wanted to ask about the winner of your contest and why she only got to spend 5 minutes with you guys. It seems like if she flew all that way she should have more one-on-one time, no?
YoungHouseLove says
We would have loved to have taken her out to dinner or hung out longer! We actually just had flown in from Boston that day, saw Clara and Burger for a few hours, did the event, and then left for Chicago first thing the next morning. Luckily they won so many prizes that their schedule was packed too, so I’m not sure they would have had time for a meal out with us either! Haha. Thankfully we had a nice long chat with her at the signing and then she and her mom hugged us goodbye and set off on their next adventure! She was at the full event to see us talk and everything, so we logged a few hours with her in total that way :)
xo,
s
Maggie says
Congrats on being #6–way to go!
Also thanks for sharing your adventure with us.
Maggie
AnnMarie says
The video clip is great…so glad we get to see it! You are seriously naturals and handle yourselves like pros. I am officially not believing you when you say that you’re nervous, sweaty, and/or awkward! ;-)
YoungHouseLove says
Are you kidding? I talked a mile a minute! And I think I advised “throwing coffee beans everywhere” to make your house smell good. Haha!
xo,
s
Whitney Dupuis says
Oh my gosh that is so amazing! New York Times best seller’s list?! #yourelivingthedream
Whitney says
I’ve been reading your blog since practically the beginning and it’s so great to see all of these amazing things happening for y’all! Couldn’t happen to a nicer bunch of people! Congrats!
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks Whitney!
xo,
s
Steph says
Wow! That is awesome! You guys totally deserve it all. :)
West Elm must be LOVING you guys. I know when I was standing in line a ton of people picked things up to buy. And I actually ended up going back and buying a rug. It’s the YHL effect!
YoungHouseLove says
Haha no way! One amazing thing about West Elm is that all the ceramic owls they’re selling (we have been signing a bunch) raise money for Saint Jude’s. Isn’t that awesome of them?!
xo,
s
Steph says
That IS awesome. LOVE West Elm. I have a 15% off coupon that I definitely will be using. THey have so much awesome stuff.
Also, my rug is being shipped to me and I want it NOW. I am way too impatient. lol
YoungHouseLove says
Wahoooo!
xo
s
Lucinda says
WELCOME TO BIG “D”! You’ll be in my backyard! Should be perfect weather. Hope you can see the sights!
Congrats on the book. I have it on my Amazon wish list for my hubby to get it for me for Christmas!
Nicole @ Liberty Belles says
CONGRATS! So wish I could’ve stopped by a signing…next book :)
jodi says
eeee! congratulations!!! so well deserved. you guys rock. i hope they NYC event gets rescheduled soon!
Emily says
I’m so bummed I couldn’t get to Toronto to see you both but I was so psyched to see your clip on Global. I hope you both loved your brief Canadian experience. I’m chomping at the bit to know which hotel you stayed at that had that awesome shower. Looking forward to the hotel crashing post!
So happy for you and all your success with the bestseller list. My book is in the mail still from Amazon.ca and I can’t wait to get it.
Happy belated Birthday to John.
Jillian {Her Split Ends} says
That is quite a wrap up! So fab though. YOu guys are KILLING it out there!! Cheers!! Loving the random pictures and updates!! coming to Atlanta anytime soon?!!?! {pa pa pa please!!}
Cheers
~ Jillian
http://www.hersplitends.com
Corie says
GOOD FOR YOU GUYS!
I feel like of all people, you two SO deserve to be on the New York Times Bestseller List. You worked really hard to get where you’re at and I’m just so happy for you guys. And I LOVE that you’re keeping it real with the same blazer and $9 fries.
*applause*
YoungHouseLove says
Aw, you’re so sweet Corie!
xo
s
Casey @ wafflingdesign says
We loved having you in the T.O.!! And you were lucky enough to come on a day we broke record for high temps in Nov! It is freeeeezing now.
And ya, the writing something in on the sticky note thing was awkward. I was going to write “come visit us in Richmond- on us!” but then I figured that was weird. hahahaha
congrats on making it to the best sellers! I wonder if you will hit #1?
YoungHouseLove says
Nah, we don’t think it’ll ever happen again. Haha! It was just beginner’s luck.
xo,
s
Kathi says
Congratulations! Off to order my book today! Look at the cold temp in the video, brrrrrr!!
Stacey says
CONGRATULATIONS!!! that’s quite an accomplishment for two people who started out just wanting to keep family and friends updated on a home reno project ;) and that you’ve done this all while “keeping it real” is amazing. enjoy your success, you deserve every bit of it!
now, COME TO PHILLY!!!!! :)
YoungHouseLove says
Thanks Stacey! We’d love to end up in Philly!
xo,
s
Angela says
So excited for you guys! I have to apologize, I had the best of intentions to attend the Mpls signing…but not going to lie, the line scared me away. I even drove by….twice….in hopes it would go down, but with a long drive home and work the next morning….I know, my own fault. Done with excuses :) I hope the MN crowd treated you well and the tour is still going great! I love love love the book!
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks Angela!
xo,
s
Lauren says
Is that the Germain hotel in Toronto? I’ve stayed there when I travel for work and it’s lovely. Can’t wait to see the hotel crashing!
YoungHouseLove says
Yes! It was so awesome!
xo,
s
Kelli from LittleCottageOfMine says
Such good times! Can’t wait for NYC!
Alison says
Every time I see one of these posts I get more excited to see you in DC! You guys are totally charming in that TV segment. I couldn’t tell at all that you were nervous. Great job!
Lisa says
For some reason I am sitting here all teary eyed…You guys are so PRECIOUS (and hilarious)!!! What true humility and graciousness you have. A crazy, awesome whirlwind surprise of life and you remain so faithful to keeping your little fam #1. I don’t even know you – feel like I do :) – but I am so proud of you. Blessings!!! xo
YoungHouseLove says
Oh Lisa, you’re the best. Thanks to all of you guys. You make our day every day.
xo
s
aimee says
John and Sherry – you seem so genuinely appreciative of all the reader gifts, etc. I am sure it is overwhelming but here’s hopin’ you’ll always keep it real and appreciate things for what they are. Even corny things are a work of art from that person’s heart. Have fun!!!!
YoungHouseLove says
The biggest thing we have learned this entire journey is that people are so kind. It’s amazing. Clara and Burger are so loved. Brings tears to my eyes as I type this.
xo
s
Nathan says
Congratulations! Don’t apologize for the weekly book signing updates… You’re not coming anywhere close to me, but the weekly updates makes me feel a part!
P.S Alot of chinese hotels have those glass showers with NO blinds…
YoungHouseLove says
Aw thanks Nathan! You’re so sweet!
xo
s
Kelly says
Congratulations on your NYT spot! That is so exciting and I can’t wait for you guys to come to DC!
Also, glad you got to try some poutine! We had our Honeymoon in Montreal and have pretty much been obsessed with poutine since then!
Megan @ Rappsody in Rooms says
Ahh this is just so exciting. I feel like I am a part of this as we get to “live” (through your posts and at signings) this whole tour/dream. It is so inspiring too. The top ten book list is pretty crazy awesome too. Congrats!
schmei says
OK, I was holding it together until I saw the worm watercolor, and then I got pretty misty… that’s one of the sweetest things I’ve ever seen.
CONGRATS on the NYT bestseller list!
YoungHouseLove says
Isn’t that the best?!! Clara is so loved. It’s amazing. Makes me cry every time.
xo
s
Erin Margaret says
Hello YHL, I have an odd question, maybe. I love your blog, I love your energy, I love you motivation and dedication. I guess I just wonder where you get all the energy and motivation to do everything, and take pictures of everything AND write amazing posts for everything. I struggle to do all three so I was just hoping for some advice in that department.
You guys are amazing, congratulations on all your success. I’ve been a follower ever since I moved to RVA last year and I love bragging that you guys belong to my town when talking to people! Haha :)
YoungHouseLove says
You’re so sweet! I think it’s probably a combination of being used to doing this after five years of it (it’s sort of second nature to break out the camera and document things as well as tackling nighttime projects and sitting on the sofa in the evening and blogging about stuff) but I’d also say that it wasn’t something we got “efficient” at overnight. It took us a long time to get into a rythm and build momentum, so just be kind to yourself and don’t pressure yourself since it sucks the fun out of it!
xo,
s