Hi Friends!

It has been a good week around here. Nothing spectacular. Nothing earth-shattering. Just one of those weeks that were slow and easy. My energy levels were replenished. Our coffee time was unhurried each morning. Just the way I like it!

Porch Sitting

This week we’ve had many wonderful summer days where the porch was calling because the breeze was perfect, the sun was shining bright, and the birdsong was heavenly. In the mornings, I love cutting flowers from our cottage gardens for bouquets. I’ll place them on the porch, then I’ll sit and relax a little longer, appreciating the beautiful surroundings. You do know, coffee on the front porch tastes even better.

First Craft Night

In Arizona, I have a group of friends who enjoy doing crafts. So why not here? I hosted the first of many Craft Nights here at our summer home with my gal-pal besties, where we painted stepping stones. There were plenty of laughs, a little creativity, and the kind of conversation that only good friends can have. We had lots of fun.

One of the gals got us all this cute stuffie.

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery

Later in the week, another group of gal pal besties and I met at a beautiful winery in Ohio: good company, beautiful scenery, and a chance to sit and enjoy the day. Another reason for girl fun! The Grand River Valley region is the Napa of Ohio. Some great wine is being produced there. 

Back Yard Firepit

Sweet man built a beautiful fire one evening, and we gathered our friends to enjoy the night away. There is just something about gathering around a fire that slows life down. Stories are shared, laughter is heard, and no one seems to be in a hurry. Do you have a fire pit?

While sitting around the campfire, a lovely sunset was happening beside us.

Our Cottage Gardens

I’ve also been soaking in the beauty of our summer flowers. Every morning, I enjoy strolling past the pretty corners of our gardens, where it always feels like something new is waiting to be found. I’m trying to appreciate these comfortable temperatures before the heat wave decides to visit us. Are you ready for the Heat Dome to hit? Stay safe, everyone.

Sometimes the best weeks aren’t the ones packed with excitement. They’re the ones filled with friendship, flowers, family, and simple moments that remind us just how blessed we really are. Sweet man and I are lucky that we have this life we have created together. Life is good.

Fourth of July

Now it’s time to switch gears. Family will soon be arriving for the Fourth of July, so meal planning has begun, and preparations are underway. It’s one of my favorite kinds of busy because it means our home will soon be filled with the people we love.

As we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday this week, I’m grateful for daily blessings that turn a house into a home and a season into summer.

Have a wonderful Fourth of July with family and friends! I hope your house will be like ours. Full of laughter, good food, and those simple moments that become the best memories. Happy 250th Birthday USA!

Linking up with Terri for The Flower Hour

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