Happy Saturday, my dear friends,
How was your day? I think our weather system forgot it’s spring—either that, or we skipped right over it and dove straight into summer. We hit nearly 100 degrees today. We’re supposed to have another 6–7 days of this heat before cooling back into the high 80s and low 90s. I’m not complaining, because let me tell you… the evenings are perfect.
My niece stopped by tonight, and Mama Sandy came over too. We threw together a last‑minute BBQ and enjoyed some chitty chat and laughter. Lake life at its finest. There’s something so special about having friends and family gather on our deck, soaking in the breezy, cool evening air.
Earlier today, a couple of my friends and I went to play bunco at a fundraiser hosted by our local Woman’s Club. I had an absolute blast. I forgot how fun bunco is—and the food didn’t hurt either. Corned beef, cabbage, soda bread, Guinness brownies, potatoes… it was such a treat. Truly an incredible day.
Good times, good friends, and lots of lake life are carrying me as I navigate some newness in my writing world. I’m sure you’ve noticed I’m changing things up a bit—trying to find a balance between daily life updates and adding something a little heartier and more meaningful. I have some big ideas for where I want to take this blog, so a gentle shift in direction feels right. No worries though—I’m hopeful we’ll still be connecting through comments, emails, or texts.
I’ve also been decorating for Easter off and on today. My fireplace is about halfway done, and I still need to finish setting up my little Easter village. I love decorating—inside and out. Being in my yard is so calming. The pups run around and chase each other while I water, which takes about an hour between the front and back.
I’ve been learning more about which plants thrive here, which ones keep gnats and mosquitos away, and which ones not to put in the ground unless I want a full‑blown jungle. Some plants spread like wildfire, and while I love a little Jungle Book moment, I don’t need a forest to tend to.
But truly, I’m enjoying my backyard more than ever. Morning coffee on the deck while the pups play. Balcony time to write. Scaling back my decorating in the best way—focusing mostly on the fireplace with just a hint of holiday throughout.
My goal is to never forget this feeling of gratitude for waking up in mine and John’s forever home.
I love days like today—waking up with John, watching the sunrise brighten the sky, watering my yard, spending time with family and friends, enjoying a simple last‑minute BBQ, and now ending my day here with you.
My home and my heart are at complete peace tonight, and I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.
Thank you for ending your day with me. I’m sending you a little lake‑life peace tonight.
Goodnight, sweet friends
And as always…
Love Life++ Hugs,
Dawna — may the butterflies remind you that we are all still becoming