If candles aren't enough

Fact: baking bread, muffins, or cookies further enhances the cozy factor during a rained-in morning, afternoon, or evening.  The aroma wafting from the oven is almost as delicious as the end product.  Almost.

I baked these Almond Roca Cookies for Ben's dad yesterday because a) it was his birthday, b) Almond Roca is his favorite candy, and c) see above.    

Rained in

If touring my Rain Gallery and listening to my Rain Dance playlist aren't quite enough to entice you to pledge the Rain Appreciation Society, perhaps I can convince you with the following cozy scene.  Don't get me wrong, I love running, letterboxing, picnicking, and all sorts of outdoor activities.  But when I'm rained out (or in, as it were), I revel in the opportunity to create a snug-as-a-bug atmosphere.  Imagine: lit candles in comforting scents, starry string lights, soft and colorful blankets, chunky wool socks, and a treasured book and/or favorite film.  And if you don't have access to the real thing, this could help set the mood as well. 

What are your must-haves in a snug-as-a-bug situation?   

Please note: In the interest of a symmetrical vignette, I left out two of my favorites: warm beverages and cuddly kitty cats.  In no way should this reflect upon their essentialness.

Left to Right, Top to Bottom

Hazelnut Latte Soy Candle by Koko Candles 

Warm Vanilla Soy Candle by Sprout Candle Shop

Banana Cream Pie Soy Candle by Candle Kitty

Bee Keeper's Quilt, pattern by Tiny Owls Magic Attic

Starry String Lights @ Restoration Hardware

Brahms Mount Cotton Herringbone Throw @ Schoolhouse Electric and Supply Company

The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak

Cotton Slipper Socks knitted by postscript love

Amélie by Jean-Pierre Jeunet

Let it rain

Further inspired by the rain, I compiled a playlist.  I hope my favorite rainy day songs encourage you to celebrate the awesomeness that is spring rain! 

p.s. My seventeen-year old self would be very disappointed that November Rain was not included.  And I fear to think what nine-year old Sarah would have to say about my deliberate snubbing of Prince.  Don't get me wrong.  Prince is brilliant.  I love him.  I just wasn't in the mood for eight- and nine-minute, gospel/pop/rock/orchestral pieces with epic guitar solos.  If you are in that very specific mood, by all means, enjoy the Purple Rain.  :)

Through a window on a rainy day

I see her about once a week.  The pink + green girl always makes me smile.

Spring Cleaning

Here are a few songs that get me in a cheery mood.  Cheery enough to launder my clothes and cleanse the ol' powder room, even.

What songs would you add to create a chipper atmosphere?