This time next week and I’ll be on the beaches of Cape Cod.

Oh glory.

I look forward to this week all year long. We started visiting the Cape for a week four years ago, right after my sister graduated college, and have been back to visit and enjoy the sunshine each year since. We visit Chatham, on the elbow of Cape Cod, and there is something about this little town that charms your socks off. I love spending the afternoon at Lighthouse Beach with a good book, taking frequent walks up and down the shore. I can’t wait to get some much needed reading done. I’ve been neglecting my books this summer and the simple beach setting is the perfect place to soak up a good book.

I also can’t wait to spend some time walking the Main street and visiting the small shops and boutiques. It’s fun to pop into the shops and take a look at all the beach decor. I usually always end up with one trinket or another to bring home and admire during the cold New England winter months. It’s important to remind yourself of your favorite places and warmers days when the weather gets dark and cold. But for now, we don’t need to think about that!

And at the end of the day there is nothing better than spending time at the house we rent (usually a different one every year, but they all have their own perfect charm). My mom does such a great job finding a place that’s beachy and cozy. It’s fun to have a cape house be yours for the week and I can’t get enough of spending time with my family while we’re there. We lounge and cook and shop and dine. It’s the best.

It’s the perfect way to close out summer.

I can’t wait.