When we first found this house, there were so many areas we were excited about, but I was most thrilled by the screened-in porch. I immediately envisioned enjoying my morning coffee, watching thunderstorms, and quiet evenings alone with Mr. SP…all on the covered porch. And since it’s mostly protected from the elements (and bugs!), we spend even more time out there than I imagined!
In fact, one of my favorite rituals takes place on this porch. Almost every Saturday morning, Little Miss and I (the early-risers) walk to our neighborhood donut shop, then bring our sugary haul back to enjoy on the screened-in porch. These quiet mornings before the boys wake up, have become our special one-on-one time, and when she really opens up about her dreams, struggles, and girl dramas.
Since it’s one of our favorite spots, I like to keep it comfy and cozy year-round. Outdoor spaces require a refresh more often than inside rooms, so I turned to HomeGoods for cozy throws, cushy pillows, and fun decor for our recent revamp. HomeGoods is a great spot for seasonal swap-outs since everything is so affordable, and I love the one-stop shopping for all things home decor.
This year we painted the ceiling pale blue and added lights for more ambiance.
I could stare at her sweet little face and listen to her chatter forever! Having a teenager has taught me just how fast these years fly by, so I want to savor every moment. Plus, I’m all too aware of how brutal Middle School can be for girls, so I want to make sure we stay connected and she knows I’m always her biggest fan.
Tips for Creating a Cozy Outdoor Space
Taking time out of our busy schedules can be tough, but when it comes to family it’s always worth it! In fact, in a recent poll, 92% wish they had more time for these special moments, and 72% say that if they had the time at home, sharing a meal with family or friends takes top priority.
What area of your home brings you the most joy? Do you have home rituals that are special to your family?
*Photos by the darling and talented Mary Summers. This post is created in collaboration with HomeGoods, but all styling, opinion, and freckle-faced cuties are my own. Thank you for supporting Hi Sugarplum sponsors.*
I love the seat area! Looks so stylish yet comfy – makes me wish I had a patio or a balcony of my own!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Thank you, Charmaine!! xoxo
I love how it turned out! I’ve been working on our patio but by bit and love how cozy it feels. Those donuts look so much better than the toast I just ate!
LOL!! This batch barely made it through the shoot before everyone started snagging one!!
This is great! Isn’t it a blessing to have a daughter?! To answer your question, the kitchen brings us so much joy! A place to cook, talk, laugh, cry… just share life together! http://www.theginghamapron.com/kitchen-update/
I’m so grateful to have both a son and daughter…the relationship with each is so special and unique!! I love my one-on-one time with each, and can’t imagine missing out on that!
Sweet! And, yes to the girl drama – I am the mom of a 13 year old girl and I know what you mean!
Ugh…the worst! It breaks my heart!
I bet the lights are pretty at night! What a great little space!
http://www.designbysydnee.com
Thank you!! Yes, it just glows!!
The only outdoor place we have with our condo is our deck. My 2 year old son has a bin of pebbles and digs for hours. I spent a lot of time designing that space and love that it is covered with flowers, lights, and is so pretty that I don’t mind digging too ;). I love these pictures of you and your daughter- so sweet!
Isn’t it funny the things that keep kids occupied?! I remember when mine we little I’d put them in the tub when I got desperate, and they’d play and splash for hours!!
Oh my goodness! Those donuts look amazing!
Impossible to resist, right?! The little shop up the street makes the best we’ve ever had!! xo
So pretty and relaxing! Makes me want to grab my credit card right now and run to Home Goods. Sadly, my boss would probably frown on this. 🙁
Donuts and Saturday mornings, with a cup of coffee and your daughter….what could be better. Your screened in porch is lovely and cozy, beautifully decorated.
Your daughter is blessed to have a mom that not only knows how important it is to connect, but also makes time for it! I am CERTAIN that intentional moments with my parents got me through the hardest parts of growing up! I love when you show us moments like this amongst all of the other wonderful things you post!
Love the pool float! Where did you get it?
It’s from HomeGoods!! So darling, right?!
Your outdoor space is gorgeous and your little girl is just precious…I miss mine :’-
I love this! The outdoor space looks great – we’ve transformed our back patio into a peaceful retreat for early morning coffee or a glass of wine at night after our little goes to sleep – not a lot of nights out with a 1 year old! But this post really tugged at my heartstrings – I simultaneously want to stop time and keep my daughter little forever, and also look forward to the relationship we will build as she gets older. Thank you for sharing your family with us all, you are raising beautiful children!