It’s funny how it’s never the big things that make a house feel like home — it’s the little touches that greet you when you walk in.

For me, it’s the personal touches that make a place feel comfy. Beautiful flowers! Like a chef who uses fresh ingredients in his craft, I love a big fresh-cut bunch of flowers to look at. A group of bright colors and different sizes. I could sit back with silence in the air, no distractions… just stare at the flowers and enjoy the peace and beauty.

Now, I’ve never had a green thumb, but I adore the look of fresh flowers. Really, who doesn’t? I can’t grow them, but every chance I get, I stop into the local shop and buy at least one bunch of assorted flowers.

I like to see flowers growing outdoors as well. They brighten up every place you see them. If your house feels a bit boring indoors with white walls and beige furniture… just think what a few bunches of assorted flowers can do.

Or if your outdoor space is just rock or dirt… add some nice big flower pots with bright, colorful blooms. What a difference!

This is what brings me to Sunday Cottage Escape. I plan to have a peaceful garden with bright colors, shade trees, bird feeders, water elements, and cozy spots to sit and enjoy nature. In a hectic world, a place to have a bit of quiet means everything. It’s necessary.

My outlook on Sunday Cottage Escape is not only of flowers and peace but of creating a special place to reflect and feel valued.

I know what it’s like to need to get away, to regroup and recharge. I worked in retail most of my adult life — 22 of those years with Walmart. The holidays, the lazy coworkers, the heavy workload, long hours, crabby customers, too many supervisors, and feeling unappreciated.

I once found a place… a getaway that made me feel like I never wanted to leave. That is exactly what I want others to feel at Sunday Cottage Escape. I want this retreat to make guests feel like it’s all about them — because it is.

For me, a comfortable, happy feeling comes from baking and having family around. The holidays! The warm smell of nutmeg and sweet desserts baking. Serving up my homemade treats and watching everyone enjoy each bite warms my heart. I’m the only one who bakes during the holidays in my family, and I love it — especially fixing up to-go trays for everyone to take home.

I love fall, winter, and spring. Summer in Arizona, not so much — I’ve lived through 125-degree heat and it’s just not for me. But the seasons I do enjoy, I take full advantage of by baking, cooking, and relaxing. Pouring myself a freshly brewed cup of coffee and sitting outside with my chihuahuas on a cool fall day are the ultimate peaceful moments.

Having special events during these seasons on Sunday afternoons or evenings is a must. Enjoying everyone’s company and socializing makes life brighter.

Of course, I want every day to be special… but Sundays are more so. Not because of religion, but because of the name Sunday Cottage Escape. Sundays have always been about slowing down, reconnecting, and celebrating little things at home. For us growing up, it was BBQs, movie nights, pizza dinners, card games, or celebrating birthdays that fell during the week.

This is why I want to bring that same kind of togetherness to Sunday Cottage Escape. To me, memories of real connections are priceless. These events will always be optional at our location, but I want to create a space where they’re available for those who crave community.

There’s also nothing wrong with staying indoors, lighting a candle, putting on soft music, and turning down the lights to nap or read a book. Or maybe soaking in a long hot bath with candles glowing and music playing. Nothing says “it’s all about me” like pampering yourself once in a while. No distractions.

With that being said… take a moment today, wherever you are, to notice the little details around you that bring peace. And someday, I hope you’ll join me at Sunday Cottage Escape — a cozy Arizona getaway where the little things aren’t little at all… they’re everything!