what I learned about america on my vacation

1. You will always be able to find Adele OR Journey when scanning radio stations.
2. Dunkin Donuts and Subways are EVERYWHERE.
3. People in Connecticut are really nice and friendly. The whole state feels neighbourly. People greet you when walking down the street.
4. The East Coast vibe is way different then the West. More relaxed, friendly, and generally helpful.
5. I kind of knew this, but they are SUPER patriotic. American flags are everywhere.
6. Brandon and I learned that we like being by the water. Being in a small town by a harbour was a highlight.
7. Guilford is our favourite Connecticut town. We might retire there. If you’re ever in the area, definitely stop by. Sit and people-watch in the village green, go down to the harbour and watch boats, eat at one of the great restaurants around town, check out house tours in home over 300 years old.
8. Connecticut is probably one of America’s best kept secrets. Many people questioned our holiday plans, but it was the perfect location for Brandon and I.

stay cool

If you can, that is.

Edmonton is in the midst of a heat wave, and I am one of the minority that has had enough heat. I’m done with it, but it’s not done with me. So I’m fighting back the only ways I can. Without air conditioning in the apartment, I must be creative. My summer routine is Freezies, a standing fan on various levels of speed, and thinking very cold thoughts.

Today, I’m turning to Songza and the power of Google Image Search for assistance.

I would listen to “Indie Ballads for the Long Winter” if I saw this outside. Peaceful and calm, it matches the view outside my imaginary window.

snow-coating-the-trees-over-water
Picture from Public-Domain-Image.com

Fireplace Folk” is wonderful for anytime you desire some introspective moments. Perhaps, in the quiet of the mountains?

alp-cabin
Picture from Public-Domain-Image.com

And finally, a taste of home. “A Cold Night in Canada” reminds me of countless evenings spent curled up with hot cocoa and a blanket. I look forward to being my natural state of cozy again.

Picture from Edmonton.ca

Until the snow comes, I’ll be dreaming of scarves, apple cider, and long walks with boots crunching in freshly fallen snow.

window shopping

I won’t be in the market for a house for a long time, but I can always dream(and often do!). One of my hobbies is exploring what’s available on Realtor.ca, and dreaming about buying houses around Edmonton. Sometimes I renovate and redecorate them before I’m done scrolling the page! Here are some fun selections that are currently available. If you’re in the market, maybe one will strike your fancy. And if not, you’re welcome to dream along with me!

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This listing looks like it was loved and enjoyed by a big and musical family. I think walking into that kitchen every morning would make me quite happy.

Go big or go gnome. Picture from Realtor.ca

I appreciate this listing because the kitchen looks to be original. You don’t find that often enough, since a lot of people usually gut kitchens instead of repainting or even simply switching out the cupboard doors. My dream house has an original kitchen.

I like the flooring in this one. Picture from Realtor.ca

This house looks amazing, with the walls so light and welcoming. I sighed a little when I saw that pass-through from the dining room to the kitchen.

Stunning. Picture from Realtor.ca

What would your dream house have?