Five on Friday - September 11, 2026

Happy Friday, friends. Before we jump into this week’s Five on Friday, I couldn’t let today pass without taking a moment to remember September 11, 2001. It’s hard to believe 25 years have passed since a day that changed our country—and so many lives—forever. Today we remember those who lost their lives, the families who still carry that loss, and the first responders and everyday heroes who showed incredible courage in the face of unimaginable tragedy. May we never forget. 

And with a grateful heart for the ordinary moments we’re blessed to have, let’s move into this week’s Five on Friday.

1.  The Pirate Queen by Ariel Lawhon

Ariel Lawhon’s newest novel, The Pirate Queen, is out this week, and this one is especially exciting for me because I’m seeing her at an author event tonight! She's the author of The Frozen River and that is on of my favorites. This book is inspired by the legendary Irish pirate queen Grace O’Malley and is filled with history, adventure, power, and a fiercely determined woman at the center of it all. Historical fiction fans will definitely want to put this one on their radar. I always love hearing an author talk about the story behind the story, so I’m especially excited to hear Ariel share more about this book tonight—and, of course, add a signed copy to my bookshelf!

Available HERE

2.  Practical Magic 2

Calling all Practical Magic fans—the Owens sisters are back! Nearly 30 years after the original became a cult favorite, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are returning as Sally and Gillian Owens in Practical Magic 2. This time, the family’s magical legacy continues with a new generation, while Sally and Gillian once again find themselves dealing with the Owens family curse. Joey King and Maisie Williams join the cast, and Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing are back too. If you loved the sisterhood, magic, and, of course, those famous midnight margaritas from the first movie, this one needs to be on your list. Practical Magic 2 hits U.S. theaters today, September 11!

3.  Oreo Apple Pie A La Mode Cookies

Well, OREO certainly knows how to get us ready for fall!  The new limited-edition Apple Pie à la Mode OREO cookies are hitting shelves, and they sound like fall wrapped up in a cookie. Think apple pie flavor with that creamy à la mode twist—all without having to bake a thing! I haven’t tried these yet, but you know I’ll be keeping my eyes open for a package. If you spot them before I do, grab a pack and let me know if they’re worth adding to the fall snack rotation!

4.  Dryer Balls

I’ve been using wool dryer balls for years, and mine have finally reached the point where it’s time for a fresh set! If you haven’t made the switch from dryer sheets yet, I’m a big fan. They help separate the clothes as they tumble, allowing the warm air to circulate better and helping laundry dry more efficiently. They’re reusable, help soften clothes, and can cut down on wrinkles and static—all without having to toss a dryer sheet in with every load. Mine have definitely earned their retirement after countless loads of laundry, so a brand-new set is headed to my laundry room!

Available HERE

5.  Hmmm...

And that’s a wrap on this week’s Five on Friday! Tonight I’m heading to the Ariel Lawhon author event, which I’m really excited about, and then I’m looking forward to settling into the weekend. I hope you have something fun planned—or maybe absolutely nothing planned at all! Either way, I hope your weekend is filled with a little relaxation, lots of laughter, and time with the people you love. Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have a wonderful weekend and I’ll see you back here next week!

A Sunny September: Decorating with Sunflowers and Mushrooms

Hello and welcome to Thinking Out Loud Thursday!  This is a time when I share something on my mind and invite you to link up and do the same.  This week, I finally took down our patriotic-themed decor and put up the late-summer sunflowers.  Can't wait to show you how it turned out ~

I mixed cheerful sunflowers with the cutest little mushrooms to create a look that feels like the perfect bridge between summer and fall. The bright yellow sunflowers bring in plenty of sunshine, while the mushrooms add just the right touch of woodland whimsy. It’s fun, happy, and just a little bit quirky—which is exactly what I was going for!

The kitchen table needed a little sunflower love too!  I kept the centerpiece simple and cheerful, carrying over the sunflowers and touches of fall from the rest of the house. I love having something pretty in the middle of the table that makes me smile every time I walk through the kitchen. It ties in perfectly with the window and mantel and gives the whole space that warm, sunny feeling I was hoping for. I've been looking for a dough ball and found the perfect one at Hobby Lobby.

The mantel got in on the sunflower and mushroom fun too. I carried the same cheerful theme over, mixing sunny yellow blooms with a few whimsical mushrooms and touches of greenery. 

And there you have it—a little tour of my sunflower and mushroom decor! I love how these cheerful touches have brightened up the window, mantel, and kitchen table and given our home that perfect in-between-season feeling. I’m not quite ready to go all-in on pumpkins just yet, so sunflowers and mushrooms are happily filling the gap! Before long, I’m sure the fall bins will be coming out, but for now, I’m going to enjoy every bit of this sunny little season. Thanks so much for stopping by and taking a peek!

Now it' your turn.  What are you thinking out loud about today?  Link up and share!

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Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - September 9, 2026

 

Welcome to the Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop! We are so glad that you stopped by. 

Here you will find inspiration from dozens of bloggers, including recipes, home DIY, gardening, decor, family fun, traveling, fitness, and so much more.

A friendly reminder to our guests that, as a courtesy to the hosts, we ask that you follow every host on at least one social media channel.

If you are a blogger, then be sure to link up below. You may be our next feature! 

Before we get this party started, let’s meet the hosts and check out this week’s featured favorites.

1. Penny – PENNY’S PASSION | FB | IG | PINTEREST
2. Sinea – DUCKS ‘N A ROW | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X
3. Tammy – MY LIFE ABUNDANT | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
4. Denise – THIS IS MY EVERYBODY | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE

HIGHLIGHT LINKS

Peach Ice Cream

An Owl-together Fall Tablescape

Stamped Tumbled Tile Coasters

Dirty Apple Cider

LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Please follow all hosts on AT LEAST 1 of their social channels.

Add as many family-friendly posts as you would like to. NO Etsy shops, adult sites, or blog parties please.  Visit others. Caring is sharing. Like, comment, and pin posts.

Party entries appear in REVERSE. This way, your entries will be seen no matter when you arrive. Please TWEET our party and invite others to join.

Let’s Party! 

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Five on Friday - September 4, 2026

Hey Hey - Happy Friday!  I'm so excited to be headed into a holiday weekend.  My to-do list is long, and I'm hoping three days are enough to at least make a dent in it.  First things first - here's my Five on Friday post for this week ~

1.  Leanne - Season 2

Season 2 of Netflix's Leanne dropped on July 31, and Eric and I have already watched the entire season! We flew through the episodes because this show just makes us laugh. Starring the hilarious Leanne Morgan, the series follows a Southern woman who suddenly finds herself starting over after her husband leaves her—and, of course, there are plenty of funny moments along the way. The whole cast is fantastic, and every character brings their own special kind of crazy to the mix. If you're looking for something light, funny, and easy to watch, definitely give Leanne a try. Now Eric and I are just over here impatiently waiting for another season!

2.  I've Got a New Complaint by Laurie Notaro

This book came out this week and I've anxious to crack it open.   I have a feeling some of her writing will be about things I can relate to...

Laurie Notaro can time travel. The portal is Scottsdale, Arizona. Once inside her elderly parents’ home, she’s a child again―who’s two years away from collecting Social Security. Caught between generations, Laurie is young enough to be thrust into the role of caregiver yet old enough to be grappling with her own creaking bones and analog life skills. It’s an awkward age.

Navigating it is just a matter of winging it. She runs rampant through Italy with her American driving skills. Infuriating office politics leave her little choice but revenge and some hexes. Laurie also confronts a high school bully at a reunion, considers an elaborate funeral at a puppet theater, and fancies an ideal retirement plan involving bank robbery. As for sex at sixty, honestly, it’s a challenge. The parts are a little rusty (at least they sound that way).

Regardless of indignity or mishap, the #1 New York Times bestselling author finds agency with the sharp wit of a woman who refuses to go gently into that good night.

Available HERE

3.  Fabric Shaver

Even though the temperatures might not be saying fall just yet, we all know sweater weather will be here before we know it! I’m already thinking about pulling out my favorite sweaters, and I know a few of them are going to need a little TLC after last season. Enter this handy fabric shaver! It quickly takes care of all that annoying pilling that can make a favorite sweater look old and tired. A few swipes and those little fuzz balls are swooshed away, leaving your sweaters looking fresh and practically brand new again. Such an easy and inexpensive way to give your fall wardrobe a little refresh without buying anything new!

Available HERE

4.  Taco Bell Churro Ice Cream Taco

Okay, Taco Bell has my attention with this one! They teamed up with Salt & Straw to introduce a brand-new Churro Ice Cream Taco, and it sounds like the perfect combination of two of my favorite things—churros and ice cream! The $3.99 treat has creamy churro-flavored ice cream tucked inside a crispy waffle cone shell and is finished with puffed rice and a dark chocolate-flavored coating. It rolled out nationwide on September 1 and is only available for a limited time while supplies last. I haven't tried one yet, but I have a feeling a Taco Bell run may be happening very soon!

5.  Yep...

And just like that, another Five on Friday is in the books! I hope you found a little something today that made you smile—or maybe even something you need to add to your shopping cart. Wishing you a wonderful weekend filled with plenty of fun, a little relaxation, and time spent doing the things you love. Enjoy every minute, and I’ll see you back here next week!

What I Read in August 2026

Hello and welcome to Thinking Out Loud Thursday.  This is a time when I share something on my mind and invite you to link up and do the same.  On the first Thursday of the month, I share the books I read the previous month.  So let's take a look at what I read in August ~

The Romance Revival 

The Romance Revival by Christina Lauren was such a fun read! This charming romance has all the ingredients I love—great chemistry, plenty of humor, heartfelt moments, and characters you can’t help but root for. Christina Lauren always seems to know how to balance laugh-out-loud moments with just the right amount of emotion, and this one was no exception. It was light, entertaining, and easy to get swept up in—the kind of book that makes you happy to keep turning the pages. If you’re looking for a feel-good romance with plenty of heart, The Romance Revival is definitely worth adding to your TBR list!

Three years ago, scientist Emery Finch did something completely out of character: She got married. To Luca—the impossibly charming landscaper she met on one blistering night in Vegas who made her laugh, made he dance, made her feel.

But now, Emery is consumed by her top research, missing dinners, forgetting anniversaries, and promising herself Luca will understand once her cutting-edge discoveries come to light. Until the unthinkable happens: A tragic accident takes Luca from her.

Desperate not to lose him, Emery breaks every rule, using the classified technology she’s developed to bring him back to life. And Luca would probably thank her for it, if only he could remember her. Their first kiss, their Sunny Sundays at the beach, the life they built together…all of it is gone.

It may be a miracle of science, but for Emery it’s her one shot at a second chance. And this time, she won’t waste it—because true love is always worth reviving.

Available HERE

The Divorce by Freida McFadden

This book has plenty of twisty, fast-paced action that makes The Divorce a great thriller!  One minute you think you have it all figured out, then the story takes a turn you didn't see coming.  If you have Kindle Unlimited, it's included in your monthly fee.

Naomi was living the quintessential love story. Boy meets girl. They fall in love, get married, buy a dream house, start a family...

Then—he kicks her out, hires the city’s best divorce lawyers, drains their accounts, and takes up with a 20-something.

It’s a brutal end to the story. Naomi should accept defeat: move into a dingy apartment, get back into the workforce, and piece together the shattered remains of her life.

Except, why should she?

Instead, Naomi fixates on her husband’s new girlfriend. What begins as cynical curiosity soon twists into obsession—and then into something far darker. As Naomi uncovers secrets she never imagined, she realizes her own life may be in danger.

But if it keeps her perfect family intact, isn’t it worth it?

Available HERE

America's First Daughter by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie

I read this one because it was our library book club pick last month.  The book club was split on people who liked it and people who didn't.  I have to admit, it had a lot of words!  The story for me was interesting, but I do wish they would have summed it up quicker than they did.  

In a compelling, richly researched novel that draws from thousands of letters and original sources, bestselling authors Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie tell the fascinating, untold story of Thomas Jefferson's eldest daughter, Martha "Patsy" Jefferson Randolph--a woman who kept the secrets of our most enigmatic founding father and shaped an American legacy.

From her earliest days, Patsy Jefferson knows that though her father loves his family dearly, his devotion to his country runs deeper still. As Thomas Jefferson's oldest daughter, she becomes his helpmate, protector, and constant companion in the wake of her mother's death, traveling with him when he becomes American minister to France.

It is in Paris, at the glittering court and among the first tumultuous days of revolution, that fifteen-year-old Patsy learns about her father's troubling liaison with Sally Hemings, a slave girl her own age. Meanwhile, Patsy has fallen in love--with her father's protégé William Short, a staunch abolitionist and ambitious diplomat. Torn between love, principles, and the bonds of family, Patsy questions whether she can choose a life as William's wife and still be a devoted daughter.

Her choice will follow her in the years to come, to Virginia farmland, Monticello, and even the White House. And as scandal, tragedy, and poverty threaten her family, Patsy must decide how much she will sacrifice to protect her father's reputation, in the process defining not just his political legacy, but that of the nation he founded.

Available HERE

Love by the Book by Jessica George

It took a beat for me to get into this one, but then I was hooked!  The story is relatable and heartfelt.  There were several times I was shaking my head in agreement of things said in the book.  If you have good friends, lost good friends, or want to have a good friend - this book is for you.

Friendship is the love story you can count on.

Remy is lucky. Her debut novel, based on her three best friends, became an instant bestseller when it was released, and her agent and publisher are clamoring for a follow-up. But just as Remy’s creative inspiration seems to leave her, so too do her friends: one moves to New York, one gets pregnant, and one gets back together with her (awful) boyfriend. After an ill-advised one-night stand complicates matters further, Remy is left deeply alone―and unable to find her next book idea.

Simone is successful. A Kindergarten teacher with a passion for kids, and a well-paying side hustle that affords her all the material comforts she desires, she doesn't have time for a robust social life. All Simone needs is her close-knit family―but after the true nature of her work is revealed, they cut her off, and she realizes for the first time just how isolated she is.

When Simone and Remy bump into each other (literally) in a bookstore, it isn’t exactly soulmates at first sight. Simone is guarded and prickly, Remy is insecure and heartbroken, and each woman is harboring a secret. And yet they might just be the missing piece the other has been searching for―if only they can let each other in.

Can Simone help Remy make one of the most important decisions of her life―and can Remy help Simone recover all that she’s lost? In Jessica George’s heartwarming, funny, and soulful second novel, she explores the restorative nature of female friendship and the life-changing power of platonic love.

Available HERE

Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan

Dolly All the Time was my selection to read on our beach getaway and it was such a charming, feel-good read! I loved the mix of humor, heart, and romance, and the story had that warm, comforting quality that made it easy to settle in and enjoy. The characters felt relatable, the relationships had plenty of heart, and there were moments that made me laugh right along with the more tender ones. It was the perfect lighter read for vacation!

Dolly Brick has never met a problem she couldn’t solve. Not when her mom left when she was twelve, and not at thirty-nine when she moves with her son back to Whitfield, Rhode Island, for the summer to keep her dad and brother from losing the family home.

So when she comes across Stewart Whitfield—annoyingly handsome scion of the Whitfield family—with a flat tire and at the wrong end of a very public, very humiliating breakup, it’s in her nature to help. But Stewart’s proposed arrangement ends up being more than either of them bargained for, because as public dinners and high-society benefits turn into sunset boat rides and kisses that hit her bloodstream like a ghost pepper, Dolly starts to feel something more than helpful. She’s never relied on anyone besides herself—can she really start now?

Available HERE

Now it's your turn.  What are you thinking out loud about today?  Link up and share!

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - September 2, 2026

Welcome to the Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop! We are so glad that you stopped by. 

Here you will find inspiration from dozens of bloggers, including recipes, home DIY, gardening, decor, family fun, traveling, fitness, and so much more.

A friendly reminder to our guests that, as a courtesy to the hosts, we ask that you follow every host on at least one social media channel.

If you are a blogger, then be sure to link up below. You may be our next feature! 

Before we get this party started, let’s meet the hosts and check out this week’s featured favorites.

1. Penny – PENNY’S PASSION | FB | IG | PINTEREST
2. Sinea – DUCKS ‘N A ROW | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X
3. Tammy – MY LIFE ABUNDANT | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
4. Denise – THIS IS MY EVERYBODY | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE

HIGHLIGHT LINKS

Cake in a Jar

Recent Reads - August 2026

Chocolate Cake Mix Hack

Frozen Strawberry Lemonade

LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Please follow all hosts on AT LEAST 1 of their social channels.

Add as many family-friendly posts as you would like to. NO Etsy shops, adult sites, or blog parties please.  Visit others. Caring is sharing. Like, comment, and pin posts.

Party entries appear in REVERSE. This way, your entries will be seen no matter when you arrive. Please TWEET our party and invite others to join.

Let’s Party! 

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Five on Friday - August 28, 2026

Hello and welcome to Five on Friday!  I'm coming to you from our vacation spot in Orange Beach today. We're down here with our son and daughter-in-law for just few days - but we're making them count!  Let me get straight to my five for today so I can get back to focusing on the waves and looking for dolphins ~

1.  Big Little Truths by Liane Moriarty

Calling all Big Little Lies fans! Liane Moriarty is taking us back to Pirriwee in her brand-new book, Big Little Truths. Ten years have passed, and Madeline, Celeste, Jane, Renata and Bonnie are now navigating life with teenagers—which, of course, brings an entirely new level of drama! When a threatening package arrives at the high school and a mysterious stranger starts hanging around, old secrets and new problems begin bubbling to the surface. This highly anticipated sequel was released August 25 and is also a Reese’s Book Club pick. I loved Big Little Lies, so you better believe this one went straight onto my TBR list!

Available HERE

2.  Palazzo Pants

I was on the hunt for a comfortable, lightweight pair of pants to travel in this week, and I think I found the perfect pair! These plaid pants checked all the boxes for me—they’re lightweight, super comfortable, and cute enough that I still felt pulled together while traveling. And here’s the best part: after a full day of sitting, walking through airports, and being on the go, they were still practically wrinkle-free! That alone makes them a travel-day winner in my book. I love finding pieces that feel as comfortable as pajamas but look like you actually put some effort into your outfit, and these definitely fit the bill. If you have a trip coming up—or just love an easy, comfortable pair of pants for everyday wear—these are absolutely worth checking out!

Available HERE

3. Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

Is it really fall if you haven’t had your first Pumpkin Spice Latte?  Starbucks officially brought back the beloved PSL this week, and suddenly I’m ready for cozy sweaters, crisp mornings, colorful leaves and all things pumpkin! Never mind that the temperatures outside may still be screaming summer—one sip of pumpkin spice and I’m mentally decorating the porch with mums and pumpkins. If you’ve been counting down the days, your wait is officially over. Grab your favorite fall drink and consider pumpkin spice season officially OPEN!

4.  Silicone Makeup Brush Holder

I had a minor panic moment while packing for our trip this week when I couldn’t find my silicone makeup brush holder. Thankfully, after a little frantic searching, I found mine—crisis averted!  I seriously love this little thing and never want to travel without it. It keeps all my makeup brushes together, protects the bristles from getting smashed in my makeup bag, and, most importantly, keeps everything clean and organized. The silicone material is soft, flexible and easy to wipe clean, making it perfect for tossing right into your suitcase or carry-on. It’s one of those inexpensive little Amazon finds that you don’t realize how much you need until you have one—and then you wonder how you ever traveled without it. If you have a trip coming up, do yourself a favor and add one to your travel essentials. Trust me, your makeup brushes will thank you!

Available HERE

5.  Ever been there???

And with that, I’m going to get back to vacation mode! We have dinner reservations tonight at a place I’ve been excited to try, and tomorrow we’re heading out on a dolphin cruise—which I can’t wait for! In between those plans, you’ll find me doing a whole lot of relaxing, reading, soaking up the sunshine and listening to the waves roll in. Honestly, that sounds like the perfect way to spend a few days! Hope you have a wonderful weekend filled with a little fun and plenty of time to relax. See you back here next week!