Colonial Cottage Style Porch Renovation With Elegant Thrifted Finds! 

Hi Linda, what a joy you bring with each video! You give of yourself so much! Please slow down ! Take care of yourself. The talent, artistry, and hardwork is evident in each “canvas” you paint each week. You give, give and give! Givers need time for themselves to recharge. Please be mindful of this and refresh each day. “Kindred spirits” want you to be healthy in every way! This is sent with love, appreciation and understanding💕I have gained so much inspiration from your videos and look forward to them each week💕💕💕love and prayer…God bless💕

Honestly Linda….is there anything you can’t do? You amaze me with all the things you’ve done at Sugarwood.

Creative people most always have a hard time shutting down, our minds are always full of hope and ideas. You are not alone in this, just a process of learning to nurture ourselves as well as others. Thank you for your always inspiring ideas, projects, and beautiful surroundings. Time to nurture Linda.🥰

Linda, I must repeat what all comments are saying to take care of your health and well-being first. It was a long explanation in beginning of this video. I’m sure we all feel that you don’t have to explain what you need to do as far as shortening video time etc. but since you have, please know that we love whatever you’re giving us-a little or a lot. Those of us who will continue to watch “anything” you can give us understand. We will still love your inspiration and style. I myself do a repeat watch of all your videos to catch up with you! You’ve shared so much and it has enriched us. So grateful for you, beautiful person. ❤

Linda, first let me say your instincts about the porch doors are spot on. It looks so much better. In fact, your whole place is looking great. But in you I sense a kindred perfectionist spirit, and that has its ups and downs. If we're lucky, we get to a time in life when it's not good for us to all things we could when we were 20, and certainly not at the same pace. Recently, after reporting I just didn't have all the energy I wanted (at age 74), my acupuncturist asked, "What would happen if you didn't strive all the time?" This was the first time anyone had ever said this to me, but I knew exactly what he was saying - that it takes energy to strive all the time, and in me anyway striving is accompanied by anxiousness. For me, giving up striving means changing my attitude to, "If it has to be perfect, I don't have to do it so fast - I can give it more time. And I can stop spending all the energy it takes to be anxious about whether it's perfect. My parents are long gone, so being perfect so they'll love me isn't necessary any more. I'm pretty new at this, but so far, I can report that (when I'm able to do it) not striving feels pretty good. I'm still getting stuff done, and to my usual high standard, just not as fast. And with far less worry. Also, I like your idea of unplugging for a period of time each day. I've been treating my cell phone like a land line for years. I take it with me in the car, but when I come home, it goes on the dining room table. I don't take it outside with me. I don't take it to the bedroom with me. After I come in from anywhere, I check it and read messages and texts. This practice helps keep me sane. Would love to know more ways to stop striving, if you have any....

Hang in there, Linda!! I pray you will be feeling like yourself again real soon!!! I can't believe how much you do with your health concerns!!! 😳 You are an amazing, driven and disciplined woman...all qualities I admire!!! I will be praying for your healing, rest and peace. Everything looks great and your husband sounds very helpful and supportive. Truly, you are blessed! Love the video -- I can't wait for next week's update! 😉

I love that you turned the doors back into looking like a door .. the Porch is going to be Gorgeous just like everything else 😍😍 Feel Better Soon 🤗

Linda, you are so smart to realize that things aren't as they should be and take steps to remedy the situations. Listen to Ben's sage advice as well! Sugarwood is transforming beautifully -it wasn't perfect when built and amended, but it's stood the test of time. Your improvements are amazing! Take more time to savor your progress; it's truly amazing to see all the progress you and Ben have made! Love your videos - length does not matter. It's just so much fun to watch your journey! Thanks for sharing.

So happy to hear you are realizing that you need to take a little time off to be with “you”. Although we look forward to seeing you often, your health is so important and should come first. Because you are so talented in so many areas,you want to share it all with us which we appreciate, but, starting to feel burnt out is your gut talking to you. 😮 Take it easy…. We will be here in the wings waiting.❤️

Look after yourself Linda there’s only one of you… great video. We have the exact same weather in England…☔️

I’m happy you will take more time for yourself, much as I love your videos. It’s hard to imagine how you find the time and energy for all that you are accomplishing, let alone producing beautiful films of it. I hope that your spirit can rest and rejuvenate in the beauty you are creating. 💕🌷💕

Wishing you answers and solutions to your health challenges soon Good Queen Linda. You bring so much joy to so many✨ And in the process of you sharing yourself, we’ve all come to love and value you. 💯 we understand and value your health over videos. You’ve brought in so much light and charm into your porch🌞 Wishing you and your family health, love, joy and peace precious Linda🪻

I get so excited when I see you posted. Your style inspires me. I love the relaxing music and your video is so peaceful and enjoyable. Enjoy the day.

Thank you for your videos. You're such an inspiration, and I appreciate your knowledge of home decor and your ideas. You must take time for yourself and try meditation to relax. That's what my doctor recommended for myself. I find myself holding my breath, and then I have issues with dizziness. I'm not sure why I do that subconsciously. A diffuser with pure essential lavender oil is wonderful. I hope you start feeling better soon and get a Great report from your doctor. Take care of yourself and relax. ❤

Take time for yourself-me time is the best medicine. I look forward to your videos, no matter what they involve, but doing the video “shorts” would help you, and give you more time for yourself.Those Holly Hocks are beautiful!

Hello sweet lady. Thanks for all that you do for us each week. But you come first . Take care of yourself first we will be here.❤

Take all the time you need but don’t forget we need our Linda even if it’s shorter time. Good thoughts for good health

Your health is a priority but I’m so happy that you are able to continue sharing Sugarwood with us. You’ve become like family. Your vision for this home is amazing. It’s as if the house talks to you and is telling you what it needs. Have a happy week.

Your hardscapers are doing a beautiful job. I can't wait to see the finished walk. And that stone is breathtaking! ❤️ I'm a master gardener (and florist) who has worked landscaping for most of the past 25 years. I love stones and stone work, and your place is just fantastic. It makes this mid western girl a bit envious. 😍 I like the porch doors without the wall boards much better. The porch is going to be beautiful. I love your place, your taste, and your style, Linda. I swear we share all the same interests, and I always love your videos. Thank you so much for sharing. You inspire me... 🤗 🌿

❤take the step back while you can ! It’s your choice right now . If you wait too long and ignore the signs it will be out of your hands. I speak from experience, honestly. Linda,whenever you post I’ll be watching….🥰🥰

Hi Linda! Amazing changes to the porch-really like the removal of wood on the doors. Can’t imagine why someone thought that was a good idea. You are so talented and full of wonderful vision for Sugarwood but need to be healthy to do and enjoy them. I can relate to your saving packages to open until after getting painting done….. I would sometimes use saving reading a really good book until I got housework done; a reward at the end of the day. Your segments are part of my self-time and I thank you for them. Hopefully, your staycation with Ben will help along with addition of minerals/vitamins to feel better. We all feel part of your lives and want the very best for you!

Good thing you told us that Willow was under foot, or else the rocker moving would have freaked us out…!😮 I love the hollyhocks!

Linda, you are my all time favorite you tuber! I love your style, admire your many talents and enjoy taking the journey as you take Sugarwood to the next level. Just as you invite us into your home, you have become an invited guest to our homes each Sunday. I cherish the time that you spend with us. So as I would want for any dear friend, you must take care of yourself first. Your health is more important than videoing for us. We may go through withdrawal pains, but know that it is best for you. Thanks for everything that your have done and taking us along. ❤

Linda, I think that is wonderful. I am in awe with how much you do share with all of us. Which I am so very thankful for. Love all your thrifting and gardening suggestions and guieding. Take time and relax and enjoy. Go for it. Have a great day.

Thank you again and take care of yourself...

Thank you for sharing! Everything looks so good. We understand you having to step back and giving yourself grace. Remember, your self care is so important. We are here and want you to feel better! We will enjoy what you can share, and are enjoying this journey with you!

Thank you for your transparency about being possibly burnt out. It happens to the best of us!! Definitely get some rest and enjoy your time. 💕 Can you share where your blue and white dress is from? You look great! Malissa

I have started thrifting again after 2 years of illness. Loving it.

I Love Shorts! Take time for yourself. Your channel is such a breath of fresh air, and the highlight of my week. Your kindred spirits need you and your inspiration. Know that, you are loved and we understand.

Everything is really coming together and looks so fab. Health and family first. From my end you have not had a lot of time to relax and enjoy your home since you moved in but you probably will when your projects are done. Enjoy your staycation. Thank you.

Oh, ps. I love your thrifted items so much.

Can’t wait to see the walkway completed.

Great video! You have really transformed your beautiful new home. “Boarding house reach”. I love that expression! 😂

Oh I just love the pillow!!!!!!

I love the decor’ for the porch! I liked how you had it decorated before but love the fresh white the best! You have great taste! Take time for yourself…you’ve been working so hard. I appreciate you. ❤thanks for posting!

Love shorter videos. They are still fun to watch. I can watch them on my breaks eg a cuppa or wile having lunch. I tend to watch shorter videos eg 15 to 20 min, otherwise I often split a video into 2 or three sessions if I want to watch it all. Busy lifestyles I'm sure would appreciate the shorter ones. A lot of hours go into making a video. Interesting content, Filming it sometimes re-filming, editing, downloading etc. So I for one appreciates any time a person puts in to make a Video.

I love your thrift finds especially the beautiful pillow

The Porch sounds like it's going to turn out so lovely! What you are going to put in it, is what I would do too. I just love the look of Old World Country French, Old World Italian, Old Country Cottage England and a bit of Early American all mixed into each other... You know how to do it, and you do Linda! It's going to look splendid! 👍

We just moved to Williamsburg, Virginia and I’ve found the most wonderful restore. I’ve found so many wonderful things to add to my collections. You’re my inspiration. I prefer short videos 20-25 minutes. You know the time really goes by once your hooked. Anyway, feel better soon.

Lovely video. Glad to hear you are putting your health first. I enjoy your videos no matter how long or short. Look forward to seeing your porch and walkway once complete. Take care!

Linda, I am an RN and one thing I always remind Ky patients, friends and family to do some specific ally for you every day. Start with fifteen minutes and gradually increase your , “me time.” It doesn’t have to be extravagant, simplicity is usually better. A great read, a good cup of coffee or tea, an enjoyable read, etc. You will realize how little time we take for ourselves. And you will be amazed how your time will refresh your soul and renew your mind and body. Try it for a week and see how you feel. ❤️

I've always wondered how people can film their lives. I used to write a blog and that was fun for me. I could never film my life and publish it. The pressure must me horrendous. Good for you for stepping back.

Please take care! Get some rest. Have a cup of tea on your porch. It's lovely finished or not!! I love the thrift finds!

You are so talented ! Take care of yourself you been non stop since you moved in ❤

Linda, please take care of your health that comes first. I wait for your video each week. The porch, the kitchen, the front walk are all looking great! Stay well.

First, your blue and white dress looked so nice on you. The dark blue square at the neckline framed your face and it looked so pretty. I think of the floral swag on your planter and in the picture as garland. Not sure if that’s the word? Your porch is going to be wonderful. I love that it’s 4 season. Up in Maine we’re getting all that rain too. Take care of yourself. I think we don’t realize how much stress we experience each day. Lovely vlog, thank you. Take care.

Hello Linda! So relieved to know that you are human, and that you also experience some of that which comes with living life. Interesting to know you are looking into magnesium cream/lotion as I myself was just looking into it. Bring us what you can, as I for one really enjoy it, as my life is so far removed from what you bring it is such a pleasure to sit and relax and enjoy your content. Much Love and Blessings to you and Ben! Keep well...❤!

Magnesium cream sounds interesting. I just tried a Magnesium complex for a few weeks, but it was too harsh on the stomach. Do share.

I love your design aesthetic, I live in a small modern minimalist home in the UK and am very happy with it, until I watch your Chanel. Then I want to move to a cottage and fill it with antiques, it’s so warm and welcoming.

Linda Dorough Dixon/Mountain Park, Georgia/If you will remember, dear friend, I mentioned many months ago that I thought the renovation of the kitchen and other areas through the holidays was really wearing on you.. it was taking much longer then you planned.. We all could hear from your remarks that you were getting very frustrated...I am ADHD like you and I know exactly what you are feeling.. You should take two weeks from videos and go through the home and finish small jobs you need to finish, small painting jobs, the Tavern molding... this will make you feel so much better .. also make sure you have special time for yourself...Feel better, Linda You know I just love your daughters New England Simple Living.. I watch every day.. I have in my younger days shelled on SANIBEL ISLAND...I made a huge mirror out of them.. the shells are all different...Tell her I would like to see her pretty face on the videos...

Praying that you find answers that will lead you to feeling energetic again. Refreshed

Linda, I really appreciate your honesty and you. New England Fine living is nothing without you and your health. I sincerely hope that you can spend some time on yourself to recharge and renew your energy levels. We know that you are smart and you will put your usual energy that you give to us, now into healing yourself. Love you Linda and I send my sincere best wishes to you my dear friend, from me in Australia. Fiona 🦘🙏💕

Happy to hear you are taking a step back on your videos. I watched you for a few years and lately I’ve had to stop watching in the middle or just skip a week due to my anxiety going sky high when watching. I love you dearly but there are times you are all over the place to the point it feels like manic to me. Please take care of yourself and remember less is sometimes more. I love the occasional almost silent, slow videos. We don’t always need to hear what you are doing moment to moment, or future moments. You’re talking the way my brain thinks when I have to much going on. 😂

I hope your feeling better soon... take some time and rest. It is kind of you to share so much of what you do but please take care of yourself. I love the consignment shop finds especially the urn and that pillow. There has been such a transformation since you moved to sugar woods. It looks amazing. Looking forward to seeing the walkway. I will be praying for you. Take care!

As a vegan I always take B 12 supplements, had my yearly check up with my oncologist ( 9 yr breast cancer survivor) . Complained of feeling tired, body aches and no appetite. Well my Vit D level was low so waiting for prescription of higher does of Vit D 1 tab once a week for 4 weeks then rechecked 8 weeks. Hopefully I will feel better. Shocking how vit levels effect us. I always take an am/ pm over 50 vitamins. Goodluck Linda. Hope you feel better soon.

Love the Hollyhocks! Take time to rest. Everything looks great.

YESSS we should all live in the moment because we never get that moment back.

Linda, I completely understand and I’m glad you are practicing self-care. Mindfulness meditation has helped me tremendously. This is something that can also be done throughout the day by simply bringing your mind back to the present moment. I learned in my doctor led group classes that when I recognize that my mind has wandered and bring it back to the ‘now’ *is* being mindful☺️ Also, have you thought about hiring someone to edit your videos? This will free up your time and reduce stress. The editor doesn’t even need to be local. Wishing you all the best.

Good for you. We will always be here to watch and care. You mentioned Kindred Spirit. I am happy to hear they are still in business. I used to visit there 16 yrs. Ago.

Love everything you share; thank you! Hope you feel better very soon! ❤

Great call on the porch doors. It looks great!

@Linda Smith Davis was Willow in the room with you? Because the rocking chair just started rocking on its own @ 3:08! Butr I didn't see Willow's shadow on the wall, so...

Linda you work so hard take you time please , painting is going great 👍 omg love the finds that urn is beautiful. The brick walk way is going to make a big impact 😊.We are having a lot of rain here in NJ too

You deserve a vacation! You accomplish so much. Everything looks lovely.

I love your videos (and your honesty). I've been going through a remodel as well and it is exhausting on so many levels. Your creativity and hands on application of ideas always amaze and inspire me! Your videos allow me to "take a break" and feel "filled up". But clearly they come with a cost to you. You need to take care of yourself - you are precious!

Thank you for a gorgeous vlog. You are amazing! Please take time to step away, find away to fill your batteries. Have fun, sleep and eat well💗.

I hope date night was fun!!! I am really enjoying watching your visions come to life!!!! You did hit a note with me this morning. I will be joining you in trying to take more me time. It has been a trying summer and I need to work on ways to fix that ! Thank you!!!

I had an experience several years ago with my health. I was fatigued with a cough and off and on slight fever. Sadly, a lot of doctors discount the complaints women report. They tested me for tick diseases and other things. They told me to try yoga and therapy or antidepressants or maybe it was menopausal. I told them I wasn't depressed and it wasn't menopausal. After a year and worsening symptoms I was finally taken seriously by a female doctor who tested and diagnosed me with an autoimmune disorder. I was treated and I have been in remission for several years. All this to say listen to your body and make sure you are being heard by medical professionals. 💜

It was so many projects going on! Sugarwood is being transformed into a beautiful home.

I love sweet Willow ❤

Just take the time to enjoy your beautiful home and all you have accomplished in such a short time 😊

Please take care of yourself, dear! As much as I love watching your videos, I don’t want you making them at the cost of your health. Enjoy your summer with Ben and Willow! 😊

Happy Sunday! sweet Linda. As always I look forward to all of your videos. You inspire me to be more creative an not to fear changing things. I have to do lots of thinking and doing things, if I want to accomplish little changes here and there that make a difference to the eye. You are such a mentor. Take care of yourself and yes! I resonate to burn out.

Linda you have a lot on your plate, take it easy! ❤

I look forward to each visit with you! , no matter how short or long! Enjoy your beautiful life!

Love your finds and your ideas for the porch. You’ve worked so hard and your’re right to take time to relax and enjoy the summer.

Hi Linda…I look forward to your videos..hope you start taking life slower and enjoy everything in your life .

I am eager to see the new walk 👍🏻

Please, take good care of yourself. Take all the good time you need. Read wonderful books and daydream your best dreams and passions. 😘

Oh Linda it ( the porch) will be so cozy and lovely. Take care of yourself and know your subscribers understand.

She's a breath of fresh air any day! God bless her!

Ahhhhh,staycation! Love those !

❤very happy for you😊 Enjoy! I will watch your older videos👍 Thanks for all of your nice videos.

Amazing progress, Linda!! Taking a step back and enjoying the moment is what it's all about. It's hard not to push forward at full speed when you are so close, but then you miss the experience, and it becomes a blur vs. a joy. Looking forward to your videos, Linda, at whatever pace or frequency is good for you and your family!!!

Another good video. I enjoy all of your videos, in fact. good music, good ideas, and good Willow. Please take some moments during the days to relax and feel peace....you are a hard worker.

I’m glad you told us that Willow was at your feet under the table. That explains how the rocking chair was rocking by itself. 👻

That was great! Thank you for sharing these times with all of us. I do look forward to visiting with you on Sunday mornings And, everything looks beautiful with all of your hard work.

I can understand burnout! I’m experiencing that now myself. Yes please don’t do that to yourself, live in the moment. My burnout is so bad right now, it’s almost crippling. I’m finding it really hard to motivate. One part of is so excited to get a project started, the part is the burnout telling me no, you can’t handle one more thing so no! I understand your working drive, but it’s not worth what you are giving up. You are never going to get your book written if you have burnout! Oh yes I see a book in your future, and you need a camera person who film can edit for you. That would free up a lot of time, so you can enjoy what you do. Live in the moment.

My goodness! Please take care of yourself and allow some downtime. That being said, love watching your channel and the making of your beautiful home. I'm loving the painted 3-season room. Looks so cheery with bright paint...be it white or a soft sage. The knots and character of the wood bleeding through can be a beautiful look, especially being so close to the garden. So excited for the new walkway and the granite step. Don't know if I can wait until next week though. 😉

Take care Linda no worries. 😊

New England is my favorite part of the country. It is so beautiful there and my in-laws lived in the Sandwich Cape area, but I am in and from HOT & DRY Central Texas. Your thrift finds are wonderful and so are your videos! I do understand the need to take a break.

Linda, the length of the videos is not a problem. There are times when I have 15 minutes to indulge in a you tube video not a 30 minutes. Shorter ones are easier to slip into my day. Your videos are always a joy to watch!

Hahahha! I was watching this video on my big screen tv a few minutes ago, and my 9yr old son walks into the room, and goes, “Oh no….What now?” Lol 🤣😂 Those of you who have watched the Ghost video will know what that means!!

Beautiful pouch update and all else Just beautiful can't wait for next video 🌹❤️👍

Always excited to see a new video up, but please take care of yourself, and hopefully what you have going on isn't serious in anyway and that you just need to give yourself a break. You have done a ton as of late so not surprised you are feeling tired.

Another favorite video….Sending you love hugs prayers and strength with kindness ❤

I cannot wait to see the finished brick sidewalk!! That old crooked walkway really bugged me! It is so hard to take a “step back” when you have so many beautiful projects yet to complete.. but do take care of yourself. Look forward to any & all your videos…so even short ones will be great!

I'm excited to see the pathway!!

Everything is looking so good, I can't wait to see the the new walk way it is going to be fabulous. I hope you feel better soon.

Hi Linda! As always I really enjoy your videos and watching the love and creativity you pour into Sugarwood. I’m a kindred spirit by hobby and passion but a leadership development coach by profession. I wanted to pop in and drop a note about burnout which is something I work a lot on with my clients and share a fun exercise you could try. We call it the “What’s on Your Plate?” exercise. Essentially, you take a piece of paper and draw a big circle representing your “plate”. Then, on your plate, list everything thing you’re responsible for in a day/week/month etc. It can be tasks, meetings, projects, errands etc. Once you’ve done that, go back and assign everything a percentage based on the time and energy it takes to complete those task, keeping in mind it should not exceed 100%. If it exceeds 100%, you have to go back and re-calculate because there is no such thing as 110% 😊. Once you’ve done that, go back over your list and you ask yourself two questions: 1) What are the things on my plate that take my energy? Is there anything I can delegate, reprioritize or remove altogether? 2) What are the things on my plate that make me happy or give me energy? How can I do more of this? Post-pandemic about 76% of people say they feel burn-out sometimes or most of the time so believe me when I say you are not alone! In fact, this could be a fun activity to do with a glass of wine and friends or family who likely feel the same. My husband and I did it together because I always test these activities on him first before I take them to clients 😏. Anyway, hope this TOTALLY unsolicited suggestion is helpful…or at least maybe a little fun. Take care! Kelly