Setting Sail

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Even though I'm already starting to plan our (now) annual trip to Vermont for new year's, these photos have me wondering how I can squeeze in another trip to the beach before cooler weather arrives. I'm thinking any beach would do, but preferably one that has access to an outdoor shower similar to the one above.

Summer To-Dos

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Although summer seems to be dragging on (humidly) here, I have been assured that cooler weather will be here before I know it and I'll be back to longing for warmer temps!

So, following this list's inspiration, here are some of my must-dos for the next few weeks...

-Spend more time lounging at the pool (slathered in spf 50, natch)

-Eat more popsicles

-Drink more iced tea (latest favorite- Yogi's chai green tea)

-Take more trips to the farmers' market (and make good use of its bounty)

-Spend as much time as possible in shorts, sundresses, and/or sandals

What about y'all... what are you looking to squeeze in while summer's still here?

Land's End Bathing Suits Get an A+

I've loved to swim since before I can remember, and every year I still get giddy at the prospect of water in pools and lakes warming up enough to take a dip!

However, finding a swimsuit that is both functional and flattering can be a tall order. While wandering through my local mall earlier this morning, I cut through Sears and decided to stop to peruse the Land's End section. I've heard wonderful things about their bathing suits for ages, but am often weary about purchasing something online if I'm unfamiliar with their sizing.

I found this tankini top and was absolutely smitten. It is amazingly supportive, long enough that it doesn't constantly ride up, and has straps that can be moved into many configurations or removed completely.

Land's End Valletta Bandeau Twist Tunic Tankini

I also love the twist detailing at the bust- so flattering! Also, it appears that this is currently marked down, so if you haven't found the perfect suit quite yet, consider giving this a try. And, if it doesn't work out, you can always return it to your local Sears.

Sidebar: Have y'all seen LE's newest venture, Canvas? It looks to be targeting a younger market and the clothes are pretty and reasonably priced. The only downside is that most of the clothes (at least for the tops) don't go above a large. I think it's a pity that they're cutting out potential customers by keeping their sizing so small!

Afternoon Inspiration

I came across this photo on my computer and it instantly made me smile.

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Growing up, my family moved when I was ten to a house a few blocks away from a town park complete with a lake. This photo reminds me of heading there on hot summer days to cool off from our (non-air conditioned!) house. Then during college I worked at the sleep away camp I had attended as a child, which was in an area of Connecticut that has lots of lakes. Even though my town was right on the coast and I love the beach, this picture seems like a more accurate representation of my summers and brings back lots of wonderful memories.

Sidebar: I apologize for so many uncredited images so far. Before I started blogging, I avidly collected images for my own personal inspiration, not bothering to note where they came from. If you know where any of them came from, please let me know and I'd be happy to give credit! I'm developing a much better filing system now :)

Beach Cottages Get an A+

K and I are still away, camping at the beach, but we'll be returning later today (thank goodness for scheduled posts)!

In the meantime, I present this lovely cottage:

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Although I really have no idea whether this house is actually near the beach, but it reminds me of all the cottages on Cape Cod that I coveted growing up during our annual family vacations. When I was little, I was also fascinated by mansions (of the Vanderbilt, not modern-day, variety), but now I think this size is a bit more my style. One of my not-so-secret dreams is to have a little cottage by the beach, perfect for impromptu getaways. I think this one would work nicely.

Afternoon Inspiration

It's cloudy, dreary, and obscenely humid here today, so I'm thinking happy summer thoughts about abundant sunshine, salt water, and cool breezes. Hopefully the weather during this weekend's trip to the Outer Banks will be more cooperative!

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Also, this weekend's painting went wonderfully- I'll post some photos (just of the afters, since I didn't think to take any until the primer was already up!) once things are a bit more put together.