Sometimes, you just know. That feeling of certainty that strikes like lightning — it happened with our relationship and also our home!  We toured our home on a Sunday after returning from our honeymoon in 2014, “fell in love,” had dinner, and put in an offer.

Our move-in coincided with one of the most festive times in Del Ray — the Halloween Parade. Moving in during this lively celebration confirmed what we had already suspected: we had found a truly special community. 

Our house is not your typical Victorian. Built in 1900, it was originally a stand-alone, and in 1984, an attached home was added, creating a unique architectural quirk. Why this addition was made remains a mystery, but it only adds to the charm and story of our home.

Inside, the home is a testament to gracious living and updated elegance. We’ve filled it with family treasures reflecting my Southern roots and honoring Andy’s 20-year naval career. The interiors are not just spaces; they are stories, each room echoing the past while embracing the present.

Between 2015 and 2016, we modernized all three bathrooms, adding both style and function. We enclosed the laundry room and added custom-built bookshelves in the upstairs office, creating spaces that blend utility with elegance.

The most important update to our home was the one we made in 2017 — adopting our Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Elvis. He opened up Del Ray for us in an entirely new way expanding our community as he greets all of our neighbors on our daily walks.

Our love for the outdoors truly shines in the latest additions to our home. In 2019, we designed a back deck and pergola, transforming our outdoor space into a haven. It’s become our favorite spot to relax, entertain, and enjoy the seasons. The large screen TV turned it into the perfect gathering place for football watching in the fall and movie nights in the summer.

The kitchen, renovated in 2020, is perhaps our favorite room. It’s a home chef’s dream, perfectly suited for a couple who loves to cook together. Whether we’re preparing for a formal dinner party, whipping up weekday meals, or simply enjoying wine and cheese with friends, this kitchen is where memories are made.

As we reflect on our journey, it’s clear that this house is more than just a place to live. It’s a home filled with love, history, and the joy of shared experiences. We knew it was meant to be from the moment we stepped inside. Sometimes, you just know. And when you know, you know.