i love . . .

when it's love month + there are so many things in life to fall in love with.

I love peppermint lattes in the winter, cold brews in the summer, and iced caramel macchiatos, year-round.

I love waking up in the morning to a fresh covering of snow. And I love waking up in the morning to the bright sun after a long winter.

I love when James gives me a hug, holding on as tight as he possibly can, and how his hugs are almost always paired with a “I love you SO much!”

I love receiving cards and letters in the mail. I love how the right words from the right person hit you in just the right way.

I love how God sends simple reminders of His love and faithfulness when you need them most. I love how He loves me when I feel I don’t deserve it.

I love long drives, shopping for Christmas decorations, old TV shows, and watching my kids play at the park.

I love being up before the sun comes up, reading my Bible in front of the fireplace, enjoying the quiet moments before the rest of my house awakens.

I love looking back at old photos, how they take me back to the exact moment the photo was snapped, and writing lists, and coming home to a new package on the doorstep.

I love how Annie and Rori run out of dance class, yelling “Mommy! Mommy!,” so proud of their hard work and the treats they earned for being good listeners.

I love learning about history and I love Old Hollywood and classic movies.

I love a good conversation, catching up with old friends, and connecting with people that just get you.

I love that I have had the privilege of living near this gorgeous view for the entirety of my life. And I love that I never tire of it.

I love floating on the lake, sparkling water in hand, listening to my husband & kids splash around in the water.

I love Vivienne’s giggle, her silly personality, and how easily she smiles, in awe of all that’s around her.

I love curling up with a warm blanket and a Hallmark movie, even if I can predict the ending less than ten minutes in, and falling asleep to rain on the roof.

I love hearing old songs on the radio. And new songs on the radio. And hearing just the right song on the radio (even though I rarely listen to the radio).

I love seeing Emery pull into the driveway after a long day of work, because I know he will be met with excited screams and hugs and so much love from each one of our children.

I love how Milena snuggles into me the moment I pick her up and I love how my presence immediately soothes her.

I love catching up with old friends, the smell of a new book, the first sip of coffee on weekend mornings, and the first day of school.

I love bubble baths.

Slow mornings. Productive mornings.

Afternoon naps.

Morning walks. Evening walks.

New candles.

Old houses.

Jesus.

And life.

~ Inspired partly by a similar post from Courtney Martin and mostly by the song my Dad used to sing to me (that also happened to be our Father/Daughter dance song at my wedding): I Love by Tom T. Hall.