Simple Summer Rituals I Love (and What They’ve Taught Me About Home)

Summer is in full swing here in Sonoma County, and if I’m being honest, this summer I'm not feeling the need to travel. With real estate at its busiest, and with everything we have right here in our backyard, staying local just makes sense. We live in a place people travel to—and I’ve learned to really appreciate that.

Over the years, I’ve found myself leaning into the simple rituals of summer—things that make me feel grounded and remind me of what “home” really means.

☕ Mornings on the Deck

I love starting my day with a cup of coffee on the deck. It’s quiet, peaceful, and a good time to get centered before the day gets moving. There’s something really valuable about having a little outdoor space where you can enjoy that kind of calm.

🌿 Garden Projects

This time of year, I tend to get inspired to work on the yard. Whether it’s planting something new, organizing a garden area, or just puttering around, it’s relaxing and productive at the same time. I don’t consider myself a hardcore gardener, but I do enjoy the creative process of making a space feel more beautiful.

🍅 Simple Summer Meals

One of my go-to summer dinners is picking up some fresh burrata from Big John’s, grabbing a few tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, and basil from the garden, and throwing together a quick pasta. It’s easy, it’s seasonal, and it feels like summer in a bowl.

🥾 Early Walks on the Trails

On Sunday mornings, I love getting outside early and walking one of our local trails while the air is still crisp. It’s a great way to reset, and it reminds me how lucky we are to be surrounded by so much natural beauty.

What This All Means to Me—And to Buyers & Sellers

These little routines have shaped how I think about home—not just as a structure, but as a lifestyle. Buyers today often tell me they’re looking for just that: a home that supports how they want to live. That might mean a quiet outdoor space, access to nature, a functional kitchen, or room to garden. It doesn’t have to be big or flashy—just intentional.

And for sellers, these lifestyle details matter. When I market a home, I think about how it lives—how someone might enjoy a morning cup of coffee there, or host a casual summer dinner. Those touches make a house feel like a home.

If you’re thinking about making a move—or simply want to reimagine the way you’re living in your current home—I’m always happy to chat.

Warmly,
Kellie