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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
