Hello dear friends!
How is your summer going?
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After ending June with a bittersweet trip to Kentucky for Rich’s dad’s funeral, we came into July feeling a deep appreciation for family and the time we have together.
Our youngest son returned to Florida with us for a visit, and even though we had a to-do list waiting, we decided to press pause and focus on what mattered most—being present and making memories.
In between those special moments, we managed to squeeze in some fun DIYs, one home organization project, and added a few coastal touches to our summer decor.
We hope you enjoy seeing what we’ve been up to, and then we’ll share a few favorite finds—from inspiring posts by fellow bloggers to some fall decor that’s already catching our eye.
Plus, if you’re feeling the itch to get organized before fall and the holidays arrive, we’ve got you covered there, too!
WHAT WE DID BEHIND THE SCENES IN JULY
Enjoyed Having our Youngest Son Home
One of the highlights of our month was a visit from our youngest son!
We made the most of our time together with a mix of relaxing and memory-making adventures.
We kicked things off with a trip to Disney Springs, where we enjoyed some shopping and delicious food—it’s always fun to stroll around, take in the sights, and sample new treats.
Next up was a peaceful beach day at DeSoto Park.
It was the perfect spot for us to relax…
and for him to do a little bird watching, one of his favorite hobbies.
A visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom was extra special.
With DinoLand scheduled to be phased out, we made sure to recreate a few old photos from when he was little.
Now that he’s studying to be a real paleontologist, it felt like a full-circle moment we’ll always treasure.
And while our son, who lives with us, couldn’t join us for all the outings due to work, we still managed to carve out time to relax by the pool as a family.
And to go to the movies to see Jurassic World!
It felt great to slow down and simply enjoy being together.
Thrift Store Scores & Yard Sale Treasures
While some thrifting trips end with empty hands, July totally delivered in the treasure-hunting department!
We hit up a local thrift store and couldn’t believe our luck—almost everything we put in our cart was 50% off.
It was one of those magical days where great finds kept appearing!
Then, the next week, we made our way to the Renningers Summer Yard Sale, and it did not disappoint.
We scooped up some fantastic deals and had such a fun time browsing through all the booths.
One booth had a table marked “25 cents each or five for a dollar,” and I turned to Rich and said, “This almost feels like stealing!”
Can you believe I got all five of these items for $1.00!!!
These kinds of outings are always a highlight—there’s something so satisfying about finding unique pieces with character (and getting them for a bargain!).
Quick Visit with Family
We were lucky to have a quick visit from my sister-in-law and brother-in-law, and we made the most of their short stay with a few fun outings.
We started with a morning walk at the Oakland Nature Preserve, where we spotted some baby alligators—such an incredible sight!
Then we headed back to Disney Springs (again!) for some shopping—turns out three of us needed new tennis shoes, so it was the perfect excuse for a shopping spree.
We wrapped up the day with a delicious lunch at The Boathouse, one of our favorite spots for a relaxing meal with a great view.
I only wish they could have stayed longer, but they were off to enjoy some beach time.
Still, we’re so grateful for the time we did get to spend together—it’s always a treat when family visits!
WHAT WE DID ON THE BLOG IN JULY
July was filled with simple projects and practical updates—perfect for summer!
If you missed any of these posts, now’s the perfect time to catch up!
Here’s a quick look back at what we shared this month:
DIY
- Memory box made with a map-This sentimental project is a meaningful way to preserve vacation memories or celebrate a special place. Grab a map and a few supplies, and you’ll have a keepsake you’ll treasure for years to come.
- Lemon wreath-After packing away the patriotic decor, our porch needed a summer refresh! This easy wreath—made from a lemon garland—added the perfect pop of color to our front door.
- Installed a new shower head– a small change that made a big difference! We swapped out our old shower head for something more functional, and we shared a clever solution to keep it secure this time around.
- Created a DIY seashell ball-This charming decor piece brings coastal charm to any room. Whether you’re decorating for summer or just love beachy touches, this project is a fun way to display your seashell collection.
Decor
- Summer home tour with simple tips for a coastal vibe-We opened the doors to our summer-styled home and shared easy ways to bring coastal charm inside—think soft colors, natural textures, and subtle seaside touches.
Organization
- Organized dresser drawers-We tackled our dresser drawers with a simple sorting strategy and a few helpful organizers—proof that little updates can make your day-to-day routine run more smoothly.
INSPIRATION FROM AROUND THE WEB
Looking for a little inspiration beyond our corner of the internet?
This month’s picks are packed with creative ideas and practical tips to keep you cool, cozy, and crafty.
Here are five seasonal posts worth checking out:
Five Best Iced Tea Recipes– Sip your way through summer with these refreshing blends.
No-Sew Unique Pillow Makeovers– Give your pillows a stylish refresh—no sewing machine required!
27 Ceiling Wallpaper Ideas– Don’t forget to look up! These bold ideas might inspire your next room makeover.
7 Ways to Cool Down at Night If You’re a Hot Sleeper– Practical tips to help you rest easy during those steamy summer nights.
Five DIY Fall Wreaths– It’s never too early to start crafting for fall—these wreaths will get your creativity flowing!
FAVORITE SEASONAL FINDS
Even though it’s still summer, I couldn’t resist browsing the new Threshold by Studio McGee Fall Collection at Target—and let me tell you, it’s full of cozy textures, warm tones, and timeless pieces that are perfect for transitioning your home into the new season.
If something catches your eye, don’t wait too long because their collections tend to sell out quickly, and these pieces are too good to miss.
Click on the blue links below the picture to get details for each item!
HOME ORGANIZATION WEEKLY TASK
We still have one month left in summer, so it’s not too late to join the Summer Home Organization Challenge!
Here are some suggestions for spaces you can work on during August!
- Week 32- Organize Backpacks, Purses, and Wallets
- Week 33- Cleaning and Laundry Routine
- Week 34- Emergency Preparedness/Contact List
- Week 35- Organize Medicine
POSTS YOU MIGHT LIKE FROM OUR ARCHIVES
As we soak up the last stretch of summer, it’s a great time to tackle a quick project, get a jump on fall prep, or start easing back into routines.
Here are a few posts from the blog archives that are perfect for this time of year:
DIY
A DIY project that adds instant character and function to any space—perfect for entryways, bathrooms, or bedrooms.
Decor
How to Ease From Summer Into Cozy Season
I’m surprised at how many people are already thinking about fall! If you’re excited for the change but not ready for pumpkins, this post shares easy ways to start transitioning your home with soft textures, warm colors, and subtle shifts in decor.
Organize
Helpful Back-to-School Organization Tips
Whether you have kids heading back to class or just love a fresh start, these tips will help you set up systems that make the school year (and your mornings) run more smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Thanks so much for spending a little time with us today!
I hope this month’s recap left you feeling inspired—whether to tackle a project, try something new, or slow down and soak up the season.
As we head into August, I’m looking forward to sharing more ways to create a home you love, one simple update at a time.
Until then, enjoy the rest of your summer and take care!
We’ll look forward to seeing you back again on August 31st for our next Seasonal Sentiments Rewind Newsletter!
Blessings, Donna and Rich
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**Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support. (disclosure policy)
Looks like a great time was had by all! You found some AMAZING thrifted pieces!! Look at all that milk glass…so good!!
Hi Rachel! I knew you would appreciate what a great haul this is, since we collect many of the same things! I am so thrilled to find so many amazing decor items at such cheap prices! Thrifting makes decorating so fun!
Love hearing about all your fabulous adventures each month, Donna. It was great to see the boys back together again and to recreate all those memory making moments. Can’t wait to see what you’re up to next month and keeping Rich and your family in our prayers. Big hugs, CoCo
Thank you CoCo, I appreciate your prayers and your friendship! Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have an awesome August!