Living on Cloud Nine: 2025

TURNING UNDER STAIRS STORAGE INTO A COZY BOOK NOOK

Friends, I’m so excited to share a little project that turned an overlooked space into one of the coziest and cutest corners! You know that small, slanted storage spot under the stairs that usually collects toys, bins, or random odds and ends? Well, it just got the sweetest makeover into a children’s reading nook for our grandchildren, and I couldn’t love it more.

Here’s where we started—just a plain little space that held toys and doll strollers. Functional, yes, but not very inspiring.

But with a little vision, this under-the-stairs area transformed into a magical retreat for little readers. Remember when I showed you my inspiration HERE.

Now, it’s a place where imagination blooms! Our remodeler added shiplap-inspired walls, a fresh coat of paint, and we added the sweetest details to make it warm and inviting. The blue shade is called Stardew from Sherwin Williams. Wait until you see what else did with that beautiful blue!

Pennant Bunting Banners HERE //Rug HERE

On the walls I hang festive Bunting Banners and a “Once Upon a Time” wall sign that sets the perfect fairytale tone. Mr. Nine spray painted it white for me.

Wood Sign HERE // Chair HERE (it folds out) // Star Pillow HERE // Sunshine Pillow Similar HERE

The cozy factor comes alive with a soft, cloud-like rug underfoot, a little children’s chair, and pillows to snuggle with. (Everything came from Amazon except that darling sun pillow, which was too cute to resist elsewhere.) Low-profile wooden Book Ledges display colorful storybooks at just the right height for little hands, turning the walls into part of the design.

Book Shelves HERE // 2 Favorite Books HERE and HERE

I’m actually not done with this space yet. Several little things I want to add. But this nook has quickly become a favorite spot to curl up with a book, imagine new adventures, or just enjoy a quiet moment. It proves that even the tiniest corners of our homes can be transformed into spaces full of love and joy.

Alphabet and Numbers Signs HERE

So, if you have an unused nook under your stairs, consider turning it into a space like this—you’ll be amazed how cozy and magical it can become. And the best part? Almost all of it can be found right on Amazon, making it an easy and fun project to recreate.

From storage to story time—what a dreamy transformation!

And note…. Since next Monday, the first of the month, is Labor Day, Jill and I are changing the Amazon link up to next Monday, September 8th. See you there!

Linking up with Momfessionals and Between Naps on The Porch // Thursday Fashion Files // I Do deClaire // Hello Monday // Sunday's on Silverado // Life and Linda

xoxo

GIRLS WEEKEND GETAWAY IN SOUTH HAVEN

Ohhh friends, if summer could bottle up joy, laughter, and the sweetest kind of soul care—it would look just like our girls’ weekend in South Haven, Michigan! It was our 4th Annual Summer Get Together. SPECIAL Edition of Friday Favorites here.

Last weekend with my dear friends Jill, Kathrine, and Laura, we packed up our bags and headed to the lakeshore for a few days of connection, fun, and fabulous eats. And let me tell you—it was everything my heart needed and more! (missed our dear Caroline)

Flowers brought for me brightened up
the rental and have made me smile all week!

We kicked things off with a walk down the pier to the charming lighthouse. South Haven never disappoints with its quaint streets, breezy lake air, and that peaceful small-town vibe that instantly slows you down. We were just anxiously awaiting Jill for the next day.

After an amazing breakfast and gift opening at the Air B&B the next morning, we changed into our chicest casual looks and headed out for shopping in town. Our favorite purchases: matching pajamas at Renaissance. We were even kind of matching that day.

Small Barbie Tote Bags HERE // Favor Boxes HERE // Barbie Head Pens HERE AND I must try Daiso! Loving that rice candy Kathrine

Then we hit up a delicious tapas restaurant called Taste—I’m still dreaming about the steak bites and potato pancakes with apple chutney! Local flavor with gourmet flair? Yes please.

And then came the vibe shift: live music at the Groovin’ Grove! Think retro vibes, disco balls, twinkle lights, the amazing voice of Shelby Lentz. With yummy bites and delicious cocktails, we sang along, we laughed, and honestly, it felt like a movie moment.

One of my favorite photos of the trip.

Back at our cozy rental, the matching pajama moment was peak girls’ trip goals. Think: blush pink florals, cool summer PJ vibes, and lots of fun timer photos. This pic was too good not to share again!

We stayed up late eating snacks, playing Catchphrase (competitive chaos!) and a deep-thinking round of Citizens of Humanity, which sparked some amazing conversations. And oh the laughter. We laughed so hard. There’s something so magical about the combination of laughter and vulnerability, isn’t there? Check out Laura's Lofthouse Cookie Bars. She found edible Barbie heads at Dollar Tree. Jill's tasty dip and lemon cookies were amazing too.

Saturday morning, we popped into the local farmers market to browse fresh blooms, berries, and artisan treats. (Yes, I absolutely left with summer blackberries & peaches in hand!)

Checkered Pants HERE

Afternoon Coffee and Tea Drinks were a must!

One of the most peaceful moments? Our visit to a salt cave at Salt & Soul. I’d never done anything like it before, and wow… 40 minutes of pure zen, salty air, and deep, calming energy. I could literally feel the stress melt away. (Highly recommend adding it to your itinerary if you’re heading to South Haven!)

Captain Lou's for dining Alfresco is also a must!

Afternoon held more shopping, relaxing at the rental, sips and homemade pizza rolls from Laura in the backyard, a walk to the pier for outfit photos and dinner at a SH staple called Clementine’s.

Outfit pics for each other is always so sweet and

guaranteed great photos. Look at that seagull, lol!

My Outfit HERE // Sandals HERE

LOVE THESE BEAUTIES!!

Back to the rental for Hot Tub time, Would you Rather questions, and Face Masks. Sorry no photos, lol! Kathrine made her French toast casserole for us the next morning. YUM!

By the end of the trip, we were all glowing—from the inside out. Not just from good food or sunshine (although both were abundant), but from the kind of connection that only true, heart-sister friendship brings.

Have you taken a girls’ trip lately? Drop your favorite destination in the comments. Always say yes to girls’ trips and memory making. Can't wait til the next one.

Happy Weekend to you my Loves!

Linking up with Momfessionals and Between Naps on The Porch // Thursday Fashion Files // I Do deClaire // Hello Monday // Sunday's on Silverado // Life and Linda

xoxo

AMAZON HOT SELLERS

Hello, sweet friends! Welcome to the monthly Amazon link-up with Jill and I. You know I’m all about finding fabulous, affordable treasures that bring both function and flair to everyday life—and today I’m sharing hot Amazon finds for 2025! From cozy one piece loungewear and 2 piece sets to adorable home finds, these pieces are too good not to share.

The Amazon Must-Haves I’m Loving Lately

Jumpsuit // Sleep Mask // Yoga Mat // Block Sign // Book Shelves // Bathroom Organization Jars // Pennant Garland // Alphabet & Numbers Set // Matching Pink Set

*Comfy-Chic Jumpsuit

This neutral one piece wonder is giving major loungewear vibes. It’s lightweight, easy to throw on, and perfect for errands, lounging, or layering. Add a jean jacket and sneakers, and boom—instant weekend look!

*Sleep Mask

This contoured sleep mask is a game-changer for beauty sleep. Super soft, light-blocking, and doesn’t smush your lashes—yes please! Laura from I do deClaire shared this with us. Add to cart please! Oh and I slater on the carmex!

*Yoga Mat by Gaiam

A girly yet grounding piece for your wellness routine. Whether you’re stretching or diving into full-on yoga flow, this mat is both cute and cushy.

The next 3 are for an Under Stairs Book Nook I’m creating for the girls.

*“It’s a Good Day to Read a Book” Block Sign

I mean… is there ever a bad day to read? This little cutie adds charm to a bookshelf, reading nook, or bedside table. Great Gift Idea for your book-loving bestie too!

*Wooden Wall-Mount Book Shelves (Set of 2)

Perfect for books, skincare, spices—you name it! I love the Scandi-vibe these shelves bring to a space. Pair with a cute sign or small potted plant for Pinterest-worthy style. Book Shelves HERE!

*Pastel Bunting Garland

This darling garland adds a whimsical, playful touch—adorable for nurseries, playrooms, or even home offices. It’s giving vintage-fair vibes in the best way!

*Alphabet & Number Hanging Charts Set

Educational and decorative? These canvas-style Wall Charts are ideal for kiddos learning their ABCs and 123s—but stylish enough to hang anywhere. Functional and photo-ready.

*Bathroom Organization

Glass Jars with Bamboo Lids (Cotton Swabs, Balls & Floss Picks)

Yes, your bathroom can be as chic as a spa. These minimalist apothecary-style jars keep your essentials tidy and pretty.

*Cotton Gauze Matching Set

I had to save one of my faves for last. This Matching Set is soft, breathable, and effortlessly feminine. Whether you’re lounging on a girls’ trip (like we just did!) or curling up with a romcom, this is a wardrobe must. I got it in this pink and two other colors.

Every one of these items is getting major love on Amazon right now, and with good reason. Whether you’re organizing, decorating, sleeping or leveling up your lounge game, these finds bring an energy we all love—pretty, polished, and full of joy!

I’ll be back Friday with a special edition favorites with lots of girl’s trip love.

Happy Amazon browsing and Happy 1st week of August!

Thank you for linking up your Amazon Purchases with us.

We’d love it if you’d follow both of us on LTK (LikeToKnowIt) where we share more Amazon fashion, beauty and decor.

Jill's LTK HERE

Andrea's LTK HERE

Linking up with Momfessionals and Between Naps on The Porch // Thursday Fashion Files // I Do deClaire // Hello Monday // Sunday's on Silverado // Life and Linda

xoxo

TRIP TO CAPE COD & NANTUCKET

Hi Lovelies! How’s your Summer? My precious mama and I just got back from a trip to Cape Cod. We took a ferry for a day trip out to Nantucket too. Such a charming part of the East Coast. Hope you enjoy these photos!

We planned this trip a year ago when we saw a piece on the nightly news about the hydrangeas out on Cape Cod in a town called Chatham! You know we love our flowers and the photos of the hydrangeas had us mesmerized!

Look how cute mom is in her blue dress!

My Favorite color of hydrangea

Compliments galore o this outfit.

The pants are so comfy!

One tip is to fly into Providence, Rhode Island versus Boston. It’s a much smaller airport so we stayed the first night there and then a car service picked us up to take us out to the Cape with a shout out if you’re in the area to Elite Car Service because they were amazing!

Our Driver, dave...our return with Jordan was equally wonderful!

We stayed at a little Inn on Chatham called The Old Harbor Inn the couple that host us were just precious and we had a charming little coastal room.

And how about these matching pajamas called Lighthouse Keeper from Printfresh, lol? How perfect to find these since they had not only lighthouses on them hydrangeas as well! Get them HERE & HERE

One thing to note if you ever go out to see the hydrangeas in July is that they have on the cape what’s called the hydrangea festival but it’s not really a festival per se. It’s a garden tour. We thought this was going on all week long during the time we visited, but it was only in certain towns and certain days. We got lucky that our day in Chatham was the morning we were leaving, so we were able to still catch the gardens. But you do not even need to go on the tour to see beautiful hydrangeas all over Cape Cod! Everyone we talked to said they were particularly spectacular this year due to the spring we had.

LOOK at these up close!

The day before we left, we took the ferry out to Nantucket! I have to say I didn’t love it as much as I thought I would.

Yes, the architecture is charming and the cobblestone Street on the main drag is just precious with great shops, but I think I liked the Cape more! It was so incredibly busy, no wonder people that live there get frustrated with all the tourists coming in. Plus, it rained the afternoon we were there and I can tell you, Nantucket, you need more covered spaces, lol! Everyone was miserable. Vineyard Vines was giving out free ponchos, lol!

That street, and the detailing, color on this
house was different and a fav of ours!

The ferry takes about 80 minutes. Hindsight is 2020 but we wish we would’ve got a car and drove out to the outlining areas to see some of the bigger homes and beaches.

before the rain, lol!

And, this years version of the all white Farm Rio Dress HERE

My advice to you if you’re planning a trip out to Cape Cod and want to see more than one town go ahead and rent a car. We are glad we did not have one and it worked out for us but if you wanna pack a lot more in, I would suggest to do so. And from what we heard from people, it appears people that go to Martha’s Vineyard and people that go to Nantucket have very different opinions, lol! I’ll leave it at that. And I also want to note some people out east can be incredibly rude, lol! We kept our kind hearts, of course, and everyone did compliment Mom and I How cute we looked in our outfits, which was very sweet.

My Dress HERE (under $30) // Bag HERE // Hair Bow HERE

Which Shot is your favorite?

One last question of the day, what do you do when people stare excessively? We encountered a lady who would literally not stop staring at us even when you met her gaze so tell me what you do when you get stared at? Lol!

Happy Week to you my Beauties!

Linking up with Momfessionals and Between Naps on The Porch // Thursday Fashion Files // I Do deClaire // Hello Monday // Sunday's on Silverado // Life and Linda

xoxo