a few of my favorite things + remembering A Good Dog

Can you believe Easter is right around the corner? Last week’s time change kind of sneaked up on me, but the warm weather and extra hour of sunshine more than compensated for any lingering fatigue. Tom and I have made daytime dates an occasional habit, and the spring weather was the perfect excuse for an impromptu cruise around Charleston Harbor. From boat rides to clean beauty, today I’m sharing an assortment of little things that have been filling my cup lately.

Speaking of cups…the trendy Ember Mug tops my list. I originally dismissed the notion of a heated mug as over-the-top. But this cup has enhanced my mornings, and I love not having to reheat coffee that’s gone cold.

2. I don’t know if anything can completely eradicate my pollen-induced dark circles and puffiness, but this ILIA Bright Start Activated Eye Cream helps. I like that it’s a retinol alternative and the application process feels like a mini-facial.

3. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy of Bunny Williams’ new book, Life in the Garden. Filled with stunning photos of lush florals and foliage, it also includes practical advice for aspiring gardeners with brown thumb tendencies like me!

4. I recently picked up a pair of colored-glass, tealight lamps from a local garden store. I found the same ones on Amazon in a variety of springtime hues! These affordable candle lamps would add a pretty touch to an Easter or Mother’s Day table.

5. If you’re local, we’ve got a couple new, noteworthy stores here in Mount Pleasant. Modern Manor features a mix of clothing, jewelry, and makeup, as well as vintage decor and antiques. At Farrah’s recommendation, I also popped into the new Alexander Scott Home the other day, and was impressed with their collection of original art.

6. I’ve been pondering the idea of finding joy amidst trial lately, and am inspired by this beautiful song about praising God through suffering. I’ve been listening to it on repeat.

7. Anyone who has had to say goodbye to a beloved pet can relate to the particular heartache we experience for animals that feel like family. It’s been nearly six months since we unexpectedly lost our 4-year old Yorkie, and we still miss our sweet boy so, so much. One of the little things that has helped has been reading the accounts of others who have loved and lost. I would recommend Garden & Gun’s Good Dog: True Stories of Loss, Love and Loyalty to any dog-lover. A collection of essays about man’s best friend, this therapeutic book has made me laugh and cry as it’s equal parts hysterical and poignant.

Scout found his way into a few photo shoots at The Roost, so I can’t help but share some memories with you! I really don’t think we could have loved this tiny terrier more. RIP, buddy.