There’s something about August at the cottage that makes time feel softer, as though the days know they’re numbered. Summer still hums with warmth, but the light shifts ever so slightly, turning golden earlier in the evening and reminding us that autumn is waiting just beyond the trees.
This year, Colleen and I had the gift of spending a few days at our family cottage with our families, the same cottage where we grew up splashing in the lake, running barefoot through the moss, and staying up too late whispering under quilts. Now, as adults and mothers, returning to this place felt full circle. Watching our children paddle, swim, splash, giggle, and chase each other through the shallow waters reminded us just how much this place has always held for us.
Slow porch mornings with warm mugs in hand. Sun on our shoulders by the lake. Berry stained smiles in the early evening. After the kids finally fell asleep, the soft glow of the fire and a sky full of stars. It was simple and it was everything.
My sister and I do not get to be together often, which made this time feel extra sweet. We even had time with our extended family that turned into stories, belly laughs, and a reminder of how care spreads in ordinary moments. The cottage is where time stretches just enough to notice the light on the water and the sound of loons in the distance.
It is where small rituals turn into memories.
Mornings on the Porch
Our days began with coffee mugs warming our hands as we sat side by side on the porch, admiring the morning. The air was fresh, carrying hints of pine and the gentle hum of the tiniest waves against the rocks. Where we can all talk about everything and nothing, letting the quiet moments in between say just as much.
Fresh bakery from our mom's downtown Bakery Shoppe was tucked under the familiar lid of her pink boxes, awaiting their discovery as each pastry surely knew they were about to be devoured. The sounds of little feet running around the main floor was always confirmation of a good day ahead.
Days on the Water
Afternoons belonged to the lake. Paddle boards skimming the water. Kids racing to the dock and then collapsing in a sun-warmed pile of towels. Sandwiches that tasted better in the breeze. The kind of fun that only asks you to show up.
We snacked on Stellar Pretzels between swims and mixed up strawberry pomegranate cocktails for a refreshing toast to summer. Sunscreen and bug spray, simple but necessary, gave us the freedom to fully enjoy our adventures without a second thought.
One of our favorite afternoons was when our extended family joined us for a taco bar. A ton of hugs and even more laughter is always a treat. The spread was simple but festive, and it reminded us that sometimes the best meals are the ones where everyone can pile their plate just how they like it.
Evening Rituals
As the sun softened, we all would wander into the woods while little hands reached for the peeking raspberries and blueberries which would be promptly popped into eager mouths, sweet bursts of summer in every bite.
After dinner, we'd go dig around for a few fishing poles and Grandpa's trusty lures. We turned over logs to find worms, then headed to the dock to cast a line. We caught and released plenty, and only agreed to a ‘last cast’ when the mosquitoes reminded us.
Later, once the kids were tucked in, the adults would stay up as late as possible, just like when we were little, whispering dreams for the future and laughing until we had to stifle yawns.
Cozy Nights
Those final hours of each day were dreamy. A spritz of Linen Spray, a warm cup of tea, and time on the couch to talk about both the memories behind us and the season ahead. These were the moments we wanted to hold onto, always wishing they could last a little longer.
What the Cottage Taught Us this Summer:
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Care is simple when you give it room.
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Nature is a teacher when you observe.
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Small rituals build a life you can feel.
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Together is a place worth protecting.
The Heart of Summer
That is what Care Cottage Crates has always been about. Creating space for these kinds of pauses. A snack on the dock in between swims, a spritz of linen spray before bed, a cup of tea when the world quiets. They may seem small, but they are the little things that make memories linger. Touches that add a little warmth and magic.
For a quick floral pause, try our Gardenlight Mini Moment; for an outdoorsy reset, Walk in the Woods.
Take a Mini Summer Pause of Your Own
As we settle into the last month of summer, we hope you’ll find your own way to savor it. Here are a few small rituals to help you stretch the season a little longer:
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Sit outside with your morning coffee or tea and notice the sounds around you.
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Make an easy meal with family or friends where everyone can gather and serve themselves.
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Keep a favorite snack or drink on hand to enjoy after a swim, a walk, or simply a long day.
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Go berry picking if you happen to be up north where berries are still prime for picking, or find something seasonal to harvest or savor while it is at its peak.
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Before bed, add one comforting ritual to help you wind down, like a favorite candle, a spritz of linen spray, or a warm drink.
Because summer doesn’t last forever, but the moments will.
A small ritual can change the feel of a whole day.
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