Summer is officially in full swing around here, and I love the way our home seems to come alive this time of year. While the season is often defined by vacations and packed calendars, my favorite place to be is right here at home, settling into the slower rhythm that only summer seems to offer.
I’ve gathered a few of the simple things and little moments that, to me, define the season. They’re the kinds of things that make the days feel longer, the evenings softer, and summer a bit more like it did when we were younger: unhurried, meaningful, and full of quiet moments. I hope they inspire you to savor this season in your own way.
If you’re feeling inspired to make your own home feel like summer, you can explore my favorite items by room here.
No. 1
Opening All of the Windows First Thing in the Morning
The first thing I do each morning is throw open the windows before the day’s heat (and bugs) settle in. Those slightly cooler morning hours are one of my favorite parts of summer – the breeze coming through the house, the birds outside, and the slower start to the day before everything gets busy.
No. 2
Watching A Storm Roll in From the Front Porch
Our front porch has always been one of my favorite places, but after this year’s exterior renovation, I love it more than ever. We set out to give our 1990s home the feeling that it had been standing here for a century and I think we came pretty close.
As beautiful as it is, what I treasure most are the moments spent there. Few things compare to settling into a chair as an afternoon thunderstorm rolls in and the sound of rain fills the neighborhood. It’s one of those simple pleasures that reminds me how restorative home can be.
No. 3
Bunches of Fresh, Local Produce
I make a point to visit our local farmers’ markets whenever I can, but summer is no doubt my favorite time to go. The tables are overflowing with the kind of produce that simply tastes better this time of year. You can’t beat fresh peaches in a bowl on the counter, sweet corn fresh off the grill, and salad greens so crisp they hardly need anything more than a simple vinaigrette. It’s one of the season’s greatest pleasures, and a reminder to savor what only these summer months can offer.
No. 4
Evening Family Bike Rides
Once dinner is finished and the sun starts slowly making its way down, we hop on our bikes and wander through the neighborhood together. It’s such a simple tradition, but one that makes the most of those lingering hours of daylight.
No. 5
Hydrangeas from the Yard
A big bunch of hydrangeas on the counter feels like one of summer’s simplest luxuries. Whether they’re gathered from the yard or picked up on your weekly grocery run, their cloud-like blooms instantly make a home feel more beautiful and inviting. I love filling a simple pitcher or ceramic vase with them and letting them be the centerpiece of whatever room we’re spending time in – an easy reminder to bring a little bit of the season indoors.
No. 6
Slow Afternoons with A Beach Read
I’m a huge fan of a beach read. Something lighthearted, set in a beach town, has my name written all over it. I loved this one by Chassity Evans. While the kids are doing their summer reading, I do mine as well!
No. 7
Adding to My Blue and White Collection
Blue and white has long been a favorite color combination, but it feels particularly at home in the summer months. Fresh yet classic, it has a way of brightening a room. I rarely pass up the opportunity to bring home another piece, whether discovered in an antique store or new (like this blue & white check collection), knowing it will effortlessly find its place among the rest of the collection.
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