Five on Friday - August 29, 2025

Happy Labor Day Weekend!  It's so hard to believe that we are winding down summer.   Let's get to the last Five on Friday for this month ~

1.  My Life with the Walter Boys

Netflix’s My Life with the Walter Boys is officially back for Season 2! It’s been a while since the first season wrapped up, and now we’ve got 10 fresh episodes to dive into. Season 1 left us with a major cliffhanger, so I’m excited to see how the story unfolds this time around. If you’re new to the series, here’s a quick recap to catch you up ~

The first season follows 15-year-old Jackie Howard as she moves across the country from dazzling Manhattan to rural Silver Falls, Colorado, to live with her new guardian: her mother’s best friend, Katherine (Sarah Rafferty), who is raising 10 kids with her husband, George (Marc Blucas). While settling into her new, chaotic countryside home, Jackie is determined to stay focused on her dream of getting into Princeton … all while wrapping her head around her feelings for two very different Walter brothers: the reliable and bookish Alex, and the mysterious and troubled Cole.

In Season 2 of My Life with the Walter Boys, Jackie is 16-years-old. Since she left Silver Falls in haste at the end of Season 1, Rodriguez says that her character is “trying to figure out where she belongs this season. She’s definitely not trying to lose either side of herself, and trying to make sure that they can coexist.”

2.  New Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough    

Be on the lookout for Nestle's new Toll House cookie flavor!  The Trick-or-Treat Cookie Dough is hitting the stores now and has a new flavor combination this year.  It features a chocolate cookie dough base and...wait for it... butterscotch morsels!  Each 14-ounce package has 20 cookies ready to pop in the oven and enjoy.  To top it off, it even comes with festive sprinkles to give your cookies a little extra flair.

3.  I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen

Every now and then, I like to mix a self-help book into my reading list, and as soon as I spotted this new release, I knew it was one I had to pick up. It just hit shelves this week, and it’s already in my cart! Here's the summary ~

10 simple mindset shifts to love the life you're already living
· identifies and dismantles 10 lies about the so-called good life
· small, real-world changes that add up to a new outlook on life
· learn to live and mother in ways that work for you and your family

In a social-media saturated world, it's all too easy to see the shiny lives of others and find your own less than lustrous. And while most women won't admit they're unhappy, they will tell you they just wish. "I love my life! I just wish ____." After 10-plus years of professional life online, Kate Strickler, founder of Naptime Kitchen, has experienced the many ways we see a life on the other side of the screen--and wish it were our own.

Setting out to fight the lie that what she had wasn't enough, Kate discovered simple perspective shifts that ultimately helped her fall in love with the life she already had. Here she shares the small changes you can make that add up to a whole new outlook on life. With her trademark real-life tips and life hacks mixed with humor and stories she's never shared before, Kate helps you identify and dismantle 10 lies about relationships, money, time, and home life. As you discover how to live and mother in ways that work for you and your family, you'll stop just wishing your life away--and begin to truly enjoy the one you already have.

Available HERE

4.  Air Tag Shoelace Strap

Our Disney World countdown is officially on, and we’re just about a week away from heading to Florida with our 9-year-old niece and nephew! This will be their very first trip to Disney, and we can’t wait to experience the magic through their eyes—rides, parades, characters, fireworks, the whole works. Of course, with how big and busy the parks can get, the last thing we’d ever want is to get separated from them. For some extra peace of mind, we’re planning to use these clever shoelace straps that securely hold an AirTag (sold separately). That way, if we get split up in the excitement, we’ll know exactly where they are. It’s one of those little travel hacks that makes me feel a whole lot more relaxed so we can focus on the fun and make the most of our Disney adventure!

Available HERE

Air Tags Available HERE

 

5.  Yep...

Wishing you a wonderful Labor Day weekend! We’ve got a few house projects to tackle, and then on Sunday after church we’re hosting some friends. I’m really looking forward to three full days of downtime and fun with Eric. Can’t wait to catch up with you all next week!

A Tray Full of Sunshine

Welcome to Thinking Out Loud Thursday! It’s my little space to share what’s on my mind and invite you to join in and do the same. Today I’m chatting about my recent tiered-tray refresh. With summer winding down, it feels like the perfect time to bring out the sunflowers!

I didn’t have to purchase a single new thing to put this display together. Instead, I simply shopped my own home and pulled out some of my favorite pieces from sunflower displays I’ve created in the past. It was fun to give them new life by rearranging them in a fresh way, and I love how a few simple changes can make everything feel brand new without spending a dime.

As summer starts to wind down, I always feel a little pang of sadness. But surrounding myself with all this sunflower sunshine instantly lifts my spirits—it’s like bringing a little burst of happiness indoors, and it never fails to put a smile on my face.

I decided to carry the sunflower theme right into our family room, dressing up the mantle with every sunflower I could find. It turned into a cheerful little focal point, and I love how the bright yellow blooms instantly warm up the whole space.

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

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Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - August 27, 2025

 

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.

MEET THE HOSTS

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

HIGHLIGHTS LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

Weight Watchers Cheesecake Pudding and Cool Whip

Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffin Recipe

Slow Cooker Italian Roast Recipe

Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake

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! 

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Five on Friday - August 22, 2025

 Friday's here again!  Let's get right to my five for today ~

1.  New Chex Mix Flavors

I'm a big fan of Chex Mix and we now have two new flavors to try - Hot & Spicy and Spicy Dill.  The early reviews talk about the Hot & Spicy featuring zesty peppery notes that's not for the faint of heart.  Each item (pretzel, rye chip, breadstick, and Chex piece) has cayenne pepper so get ready for a fiery finish.  The Spicy Dill boasts a tangy, herbaceous flavor.  Hmmm...sounds like a lot of heat!

2.  Billy Joel:  And So It Goes

Have you caught the 2-part HBO special on Billy Joel yet? It was released at the end of July and is definitely worth the watch! At about five hours total, it’s a bit of a commitment, but such a captivating deep dive into the life and career of the legendary Billy Joel. I’ve been a fan for years and still came away learning new things—and the way his music is woven into the interviews makes it even better.

3.  Mexican Train Dominoe Game

During a recent visit with friends, they introduced us to a new game—Mexican Train Dominoes. I had never played before, but after just a few rounds I was completely hooked. It’s one of those games that’s super easy to pick up, but so much fun that you don’t want to stop playing. As soon as we got home, I jumped online and ordered a set for us. Since then, we’ve already had our neighbors over to play, and it’s safe to say it’s become a new favorite around here. The best part is that it works for any kind of game night—you can play with a whole group and make it a party, or just two players for something a little more laid-back. If you’re looking for a game that’s easy and fun, I can’t recommend Mexican Train Dominoes enough!

Available HERE

4.  Short Sleeve Swing Dress

I treated myself to a new dress this week and I’m obsessed! I found it on sale on Amazon, so of course I couldn’t pass it up. It has pockets (always a win!) and the flowy fit makes it so easy and comfortable to wear. The fabric is lightweight enough for these warm days, but I can already see it paired with a denim jacket once fall rolls around. Plus, it comes in so many colors—I’m tempted to grab another one!

Available HERE

5.  Just a thought...

Wishing you a wonderful weekend! We’ve got some fun plans lined up, and with the forecast looking beautiful, I’m really looking forward to it. Catch you next week!

Memories from Sequoia National Park

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.  Today I'm reliving a piece of our recent vacation to Sequoia National Park!

This year, we decided to conquer a couple of the national parks on our vacation.  Our itinerary included Sequoia, King's Canyon, and Yosemite.  Our friends, Jill and Craig, came on the trip too and were our partners in fun.  We flew from St. Louis to Fresno, rented a car, and headed to our rental just outside Sequoia National Park.  If you missed the review about the house we rented, you can read it HERE.  

We arrived at the house in the early afternoon and after settling in a bit, decided to head to the park to get the lay of the land.  Turns out, this was the best decision ever!  The park was not crowded and we were able to do a few things on our list without long lines or waits.  

First, the trees are GINORMOUS!  Standing beneath a giant sequoia is an experience you’ll never forget. These towering trees, found only on the western slopes of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, are the largest living things on Earth by volume. Many soar over 250 feet tall, with bases wider than most houses. Their cinnamon-colored bark, thick and deeply grooved, tells the story of thousands of years—some have stood for more than 2,000 years, weathering storms, fires, and seasons without end.

What’s most amazing is how serene they feel. Walking through a grove of giant sequoias feels like stepping into a natural cathedral. Sunlight filters through their high branches, the air is hushed, and there’s a sense of timelessness that makes you pause and simply take it all in. These trees aren’t just part of nature—they’re monuments to endurance, resilience, and the quiet power of the natural world.

On our first night, we had dinner at the Wuksachi Lodge restaurant and lucked out with a window seat looking out over the mountains—the perfect spot to watch a breathtaking sunset.

We had a full agenda for Day Two.  Top on the list was climbing Moro Rock.  This rock looms overhead when you enter the park and, as you can see from the picture, the road to get there is a little curvy.

To get to the top, you take the 350-step staircase up the massive granite dome.  There are handrails along the way. Climbing Moro Rock is equal parts challenge and reward. 

The steep stone staircase winds upward with dizzying drop-offs on either side.  But the moment you step onto the summit, every ounce of effort melts into awe. The world opens up in a sweeping 360-degree view—jagged Sierra peaks in the distance, forest stretching endlessly below, and the sky feeling just within reach. Standing there, you can’t help but feel a mix of exhilaration, triumph, and deep gratitude. It’s the kind of moment that makes you catch your breath—not from the climb, but from the sheer beauty and accomplishment of it all.

In the afternoon, we hiked another trail along a riverbed.  I feel if you were visiting in the spring, most of what we were walking on would be underwater.  

We enjoyed a nice picnic in the shade of the trees and relaxed.  Our next adventure was taking part in Wonders of the Night Sky, a stargazing trip from Wuksachi Lodge.  This expert-led stargazing adventure fills up fast, so book ahead of you're interested!  The views of the stars in a truly dark sky were amazing.

Sequoia National Park is a place that takes your breath away the moment you arrive. Home to the largest trees on Earth, it’s where you can walk among giants that have stood for thousands of years. Beyond the awe-inspiring sequoias, the park offers stunning mountain vistas, crystal-clear streams, and peaceful meadows that feel worlds away from the hustle of everyday life. Whether you’re hiking to a sweeping viewpoint, climbing Moro Rock for an unforgettable panorama, or simply sitting in the shade of a massive tree, Sequoia has a way of making you feel both humbled and inspired. It’s not just a park to visit—it’s an experience to treasure.

The next day, we were off to King's Canyon.  I'll be sharing that day with you soon!

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!

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Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - August 20, 2025

 

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.

MEET THE HOSTS

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

HIGHLIGHTS LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

Angel Food Cake with Pineapple

How to Read Books and Magazines for Free

Kit Kat Teacher Gift

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes

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 15, 2025

Hello! What a whirlwind week it’s been! We flew home from vacation late last Saturday night, enjoyed a wonderful Sunday at church and catching up with friends, and then I headed straight to a hotel for a week-long work event. I finally made it home last night, and it felt amazing to sleep in my own bed again!  Let's jump into my five for today ~

1.  Krispy Kreme Harry Potter Doughnuts

Hey Harry Potter fans - mark your calendars for August 18.  You are going to love this!  For a limited time, you can get a box of doughnuts containing two of each house-inspried doughnuts:  Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw.  Each is a unique flavor and color.  Also included in the dozen is a surprise-filled Sorting Hat doughnut and a few original glazed.  The flavors sound so fun - cookie butter, brown butter toffee custard, and blueberry icing.  Get them while you can!

2.  Nobody 2

Hutch Mansell is back! Did you catch the first movie? We did, and we thought it was great. Now we’re excited to check out the sequel as well. Here’s the summary:~ 

Workaholic assassin Hutch Mansell takes his family on a much-needed vacation to the small tourist town of Plummerville. However, he soon finds himself in the crosshairs of a corrupt theme-park operator, a shady sheriff, and a bloodthirsty crime boss.

3.  Tell Me Everything

Elizabeth Strout is back with the final installment in her beloved series, and it’s a bittersweet moment for fans who have followed these characters through years of love, loss, and quiet revelations. Tell Me Everything brings us once more to Crosby, Maine, where familiar faces—and a few new ones—intertwine in a story that captures the beauty and heartbreak of ordinary life. It’s a tender, thoughtful farewell that feels like coming home one last time.  Here's the summary ~

With her remarkable insight into the human condition and silences that contain multitudes, Elizabeth Strout returns to the town of Crosby, Maine, and to her beloved cast of characters—Lucy Barton, Olive Kitteridge, Bob Burgess, and more—as they deal with a shocking crime in their midst, fall in love and yet choose to be apart, and grapple with the question, as Lucy Barton puts it, “What does anyone’s life mean?”

It’s autumn in Maine, and the town lawyer Bob Burgess has become enmeshed in an unfolding murder investigation, defending a lonely, isolated man accused of killing his mother. He has also fallen into a deep and abiding friendship with the acclaimed writer Lucy Barton, who lives down the road in a house by the sea with her ex-husband, William. Together, Lucy and Bob go on walks and talk about their lives, their fears and regrets, and what might have been. Lucy, meanwhile, is finally introduced to the iconic Olive Kitteridge, now living in a retirement community on the edge of town. They spend afternoons together in Olive’s apartment, telling each other stories. Stories about people they have known—“unrecorded lives,” Olive calls them—reanimating them, and, in the process, imbuing their lives with meaning.

Brimming with empathy and pathos, Tell Me Everything is Elizabeth Strout operating at the height of her powers, illuminating the ways in which our relationships keep us afloat. As Lucy says, “Love comes in so many different forms, but it is always love.”

Available HERE

4.  No Show Socks to Wear with Heels, Flats, and More

I’ve gotten into the habit of wearing no-show socks with all my work shoes. In the summer, I used to go without socks, but these no-shows are so much more comfortable! Plus, the silicone strip on the heel keeps them perfectly in place.  No more blisters or sore feet!

Available HERE

5.  Yep...

Have a great weekend! We’re off to Chicago to watch the St. Louis soccer team in action. It’s going to be a couple of days packed with fun, and I’m all in! Next week, I’ll start sharing more about our California vacation. See you then!

Where to Stay When Visiting Sequioa National Park

Hello and welcome to Thinking Out Loud Thursday.  This is a time when I share something I'm thinking about and invite you to link up and do the same.  We are just back from vacation where we visited Sequioa National Park, King's Canyon and Yosemite.  It was glorious!  I'm still thinking about the adorable place we stayed while visiting Sequoia and King's Canyon so I'm sharing it with you today ~

Quail Ridge Cabin near Sequoia National Park

We vacationed this year with our good friends Jill and Craig.  The trip began with visiting Sequioa and King's Canyon, so our search for a place to stay started in that region.  Our requirements for a location were at least 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.  Craig found a dream home just a few miles outside the gate into Sequoia in Three Rivers!  I'm sharing many of the pictures straight from their listing.  All the pictures were exactly what we found and none of them were misleading.

The sleeping arrangements in this home has a beautiful loft bedroom with a bathroom attached.  The views from this space were spectacular!

It had a little balcony off of it too that would be a great space to relax.

The bathroom for the upstairs bedroom had a soaker tub that was perfect to sit in after a long day of hiking.

The second bedroom was found in the basement.  It too had a slider that enabled you to see the mountains.  

The bathroom in the basement had a sink and toilet.  It worked well to get ready in after you had showered in the main level bathroom.

There was a bonus trundle bed in the basement that would work beautifully for other guests.  Kids would love settling in in this space!

If you had any energy left after coming home from the park, you could play ping pong on the table in the basement.  This whole area would be great for kids of all ages to hang out in.

In the common areas and kitchen on the main floor, you have plenty of room to sit and relax.  

We enjoyed using the table to play games, but had breakfast each day on the patio where we could soak in the wonderful view of the mountains.

Every imaginable detail was covered by the owners of this cabin.  The kitchen was excellently appointed, snacks available in the cookie jar, soaking salts by the bath.  There were games, puzzles and even binoculars!  You name it, it was covered!  

Leaving this place was hard to do!  We are already talking about when we can go back.  If you are planning a trip to this area, I'd highly recommend staying at Quail Ridge Cabin near Sequoia National Park.  If you have any questions about it, please feel free to reach out to me and I will give you very honest answers.  

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

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter