Welcome! I’m Joy—a wife, a mom, a Gigi, a teacher, and unapologetically extra.
Life around here is rarely quiet, but it’s always full. Between teaching, spending time with my family, tackling DIY projects, and dreaming about our next adventure, I’ve learned that you don’t need a huge budget to create a life you love.
We renovate our home one project at a time on a teacher’s budget, proving that patience, creativity, and a little determination can completely transform a space. Some projects turn out exactly as planned… and others become stories we’ll laugh about for years.
When we’re not covered in paint or planning the next room makeover, we’re planning our next adventure. Whether it’s exploring a new city, discovering hidden gems close to home, making memories with our family, or dreaming about future adventures across Europe, we believe experiences are just as valuable as beautiful spaces.
This blog is where I share it all—the before-and-afters, decorating ideas, DIY projects, travel inspiration, organization tips, and the little moments that make life meaningful. If I can inspire someone to pick up a paintbrush, book the trip they’ve been dreaming about, or create a home they truly love, then this little corner of the internet has done its job.
So come along for the renovations, the adventures, the occasional DIY or travel mishap, and plenty of extra. Because life is too short to settle for ordinary.
From DIY to Dolce Vita is our journey of creating a beautiful home, exploring the world, and finding joy along the way. I hope it inspires you to do the same.
From DIY to Dolce Vita 
Leave a comment