Simple Joys of the Week, September 12th Edition

A few of the simple, sensory joys that brought me pleasure this week...

HEAR: "We Are Here" by Alicia Keys
Alicia Keys put out a new song + video this week, and it's really moving and uplifting and I love it. I heard it on 9/11 and it had a big impact on me--all it took was one listen and I was practically in tears. You can listen/watch (and view her FB post about it) below...

Post by Alicia Keys.

SEE: My Mama! 
As I've already mentioned, my mom is in town this week and it's been amazing spending time with her. It's been very low-key--we've mostly gone to the beach (every day, actually)--and I'm loving getting this time to unwind at the end of the summer while spending QT with the woman who raised me ;) 

TASTE: Home-cooked Flounder, made by my hubbers
Have I ever told you that Ben is the TOTAL chef of the household? I'm sure I have, but y'all, the guy can cook and it makes me SO happy! Last weekend, he picked up some fresh flounder from a local seafood market, cooked it right up, and served it with some potatoes and green beans. It was one of the most amazing meals I've had in a long time, and I'm not even a seafood person! Good guy, that Ben. 

SMELL: TruRoots Coconut Lemongrass Multigrain Pilaf
Okay, so I've found a new *super easy* gluten-free, sugar-free, dairy-free meal option, and it's delish!!! Here's what I do: follow the directions on the box and cook it in the rice maker (my kind of cooking--plus it makes your house smell wonderful!). When it's done, add shredded coconut (unsweetened, of course), walnuts, EVOO, and the juice of 1 lime. It. Is. Incredible. Try it! 

TOUCH: Wearing a hoodie on the beach...
I know this sounds weird, but I have been LOVING going to the beach in the cool weather this week. It's been just the right temp--if I wear leggings and a hoodie, I'm perfectly comfortable against the wind and can still enjoy the heat of the sun while sitting in my beach chair. Plus, I don't have to worry about sunscreen OR getting too hot, ya know!? Cape Cod in September is where it's at. We have the beach to ourselves, the sun is still shining, the days are gorgeous, and we can just letttt goooooo...

What made you smile over the past 7 days? Hope you can find some time to pause and reflect today.

Have a gorgeous Friday, everyone!