These are a few of my favorite things...

While I do like raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens,

bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens

(although just the thought of the aforementioned makes me break into a sweat),

a few of my favorite things include....

...a morning cup of coffee, sipped leisurely at my favorite little breakfast place along the shoreline...

...Eating out for breakfast with 5 spectacular men, one of whom (bright orange) is celebrating his 16th birthday tomorrow, and is officially my favorite 16 year old in the world...

...Did I mention my morning coffee leisurely enjoyed at my favorite breakfast place along the beach?? Oh. Ok. Well, it's worth repeating twice. This time I'll add the fresh-out-of-the-fryer Apple Cider donuts served alongside of it....




...a reprieve, even if just for 1 day, from the duties and demands of 5 small children, and spent with the man I love more than life itself!...





...a sunny day, with time to soak my feet in the sand and watch them get covered with small waves of salty water...






...finding a pretty little {cheap} sundress at a shop along the beach, purchased because I realized that I had packed my tankini top, but not the bottom. It is true what they say, there is a billowing, cotton, sky blue lining in every cloud! ;)





...a frozen coffee drink, a brand spankin' new Martha Stewart* magazine and the waves at my feet, Oh Happy Day!....


(*I do not think I have ever made any recipe, craft or decor item from any of Martha's magazines that she sends me. I suppose it's the order, symmetry and visual appeal of perfection that I like to peruse and pretend to aspire to).

...waves crashing along the jetty...

Truly, i love the sea.

It restores, revitalizes and renews me.

The last 24 hours was an extra special gift to me from God, and He provided many kind souls to make it happen (you know who you are!! "Thank you" just isn't enough!). Additionally, we are celebrating a strong, courageous young man who I was privileged enough to gain when I married his father.

It is my hope that you, my friend, are able to find even 5 minutes today where you heart is refreshed. Thank you so much for stopping by the cottage. If you would would like, share with us a few of YOUR favorite things (and maybe you love warm woolen mittens all year through, just like Maria!).