So, guess what...

it's true!

big, exciting stuff around here.

and we are feeling pretty darn happy and blessed about it.

The South.

Each time I visit the South I am completely taken with it.

  Each new place I've seen, I grow more and more in love with just about everything about it.

The seemingly slower pace of life, the smells...kind of earthy and damp, the way folks greet you and speak to you like you are a long lost friend.

I swear, part of me truly believes I was meant to live there.

This past week I got to enjoy a quick trip to South Carolina for a couple of days. And while it was a work trip peppered with meetings and dinners, they thankfully gave us quite a bit of free time to wander the gorgeous 22,000 acre plantation land.

Time to relax in my own private cottage on my own private screened in porch (honestly, is there anything more appealing than a screened in porch??!)

Time to read an entire book in 2 days.

Time to relax in a soaking sanctuary.

Time to ride the darling bikes they have parked outside each cottage around the grounds.

And time for an incredible facial, manicure and pedicure.

I came back feeling refreshed. And I'll tell you...I haven't felt refreshed in awhile.

Must be that sweet Southern air.

Well hello there.

Remember me?

  It's been awhile.

This little blog o' mine has been quite neglected as of recently.

How does time pass by so quickly?? How is it that weeks have passed and the thoughts I think of writing about 20 times a day never quite seem to make it on the screen?

Lack of time? Busy schedules? Rather snuggle a sweet little girl?

I think it's a combination of all of the above.

But...I love documenting our life here.

I love looking back and reviewing the past year's ups and downs. I love it not only for its timeline of events, but for the outlet it allows me. A way for me to take a step back and ponder...and through that pondering, more often than not comes a clearer realization of thankfulness.

  Thank you little blog...I pledge to be better at keeping up. If not for me, for Hans and Auntie Kay :)

And so...little things that make me extra thankful lately:

Sunday brunch with friends (and REALLY delicious Mighty-O donuts!)

The friendship between these two...

Easter gatherings with family, gorgeous weather, and a passed down dress on a little one that used to be mine.

The extra-excited-shake-face made quite a few appearances with each egg opening this year!

Zoo adventures

And little girls holding hands...

Backyard apple blossom tree.

First outdoor lunch of the season.

Just being outside in general...the vitamin D did some serious wonders last weekend.

Happy thankful week friends!