the Weekender

Happy Hello’s from a partly cloudy Rogersville!

Miscellany:

1. One of my favorite summer sights is Queen Anne’s Lace (see photo above). You’ll often find it growing along country roads, in meadows, pastures, and vacant lots, turning ordinary stretches of land into something beautiful.

This week, the evening sun was shining through a patch of blooms and I couldn’t help but stop and admire them. Their delicate white flowers seem almost too pretty to be growing wild. It’s a gentle reminder that some of the most beautiful things in life aren’t planned or cultivated—they simply show up and bloom right where they are planted.

2. Steve’s Colonoscopy: The Best Kind of News

Steve had his routine colonoscopy on Wednesday, and I’ll admit I was a little anxious leading up to it. A few years ago, we walked through a pretty scary season after doctors discovered a very large polyp that ultimately required resection surgery. Thankfully, everything turned out well, but those experiences have a way of lingering in the back of your mind.

I know this isn’t exactly the kind of photo you frame, but definitely the kind of moment you celebrate. After his routine colonoscopy and years of gratitude following a previous health scare, we received the best news possible—everything looked great and we’re good for another five years. PTL!

3. Fresh Roots, Fresh Perspective

This week I also had my hair appointment, and while getting my roots touched up isn’t exactly headline news, it always gives me a little boost. There’s just something about sitting in that salon chair and walking out feeling refreshed.

Every single time I get my hair done, I’m reminded of just how long it has become. Since I wear it pulled back about 99% of the time, I honestly forget. Then my stylist spins the chair around and suddenly I’m thinking, “Oh wow, that’s a lot more hair than I realized.” It’s funny how the smallest acts of self-care can brighten an entire week.

4. A Backyard Rescue

This week Bentley became unusually interested in the area behind our shed. The section is fenced off from the dogs, but he kept checking it out and acting like something was back there.

Curiosity finally got the best of me, so I went to investigate. Sure enough, I found a bird that appeared to have an injured wing. Steve contacted a local wildlife rehabilitator, and with her guidance we were able to safely capture the bird and bring it to her for care.

The bird turned out to be a Grackle, and it was actually quite beautiful up close. I’m always amazed by the details you don’t notice from a distance. We don’t know exactly what happened to it, but I’m grateful there was someone nearby with the knowledge and resources to help. It felt good to play a small part in getting the little guy the care he needed.

5. In My Reading Era

You guys, would you believe I’ve read six books since getting my Kindle for my birthday back in May?

I know that’s probably not a huge number for some of you avid readers, but for me, it feels like quite the accomplishment. I’ve always have a terrible time making a habit out of reading. Life got busy, screens became the default, and books slowly moved to the back burner.

Getting a Kindle has completely changed that. I’ve found myself reaching for it in the evenings, during quiet moments, and whenever I have a little downtime. There’s something so satisfying about getting lost in a good story and disappearing into someone else’s world for a few hours.

Lately, I’ve been on a bit of an Abby Jimenez kick. I just finished Part of Your World and absolutely loved it. So, so good. The characters were lovable, the story pulled me in from the very beginning, and I found myself thinking about it long after I finished the last page.

Now what to read next!?!? My Kindle has quickly become one of my favorite birthday gifts ever. 📚💕

6. A New Recipe

This week I shared a new recipe that is a sweet nod to Steve’s Canadian roots. Inspired by the beloved Flakie snack cake, this no-bake dessert layers saltine crackers, creamy vanilla pudding, raspberry jam, and whipped topping into an easy make-ahead treat that’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth. It may not look fancy, but trust me when I say every bite is worth it. Yum!

Around the Web:

This Tomato Ricotta Phyllo Tart.

These Homemade Biscuits.

This La Scala Chopped Salad looks so good!

Have you heard of the Viral Dot Cakes?

Make ahead Firework S’mores.

This Terracotta Pot Wreath. (Instagram Reel)

This DIY Jewelry Organizer.

These Patriotic Favor Bags — so cute and easy!

These Chocolate V-Cut Ballet Flats are so cute and surprisingly comfy.

Have you grabbed yourself a porch or garden goose yet?

I’m so curious about the Zig Zag Headbands. Have you tried them?

One Last Hoorah:

And on that note, I’ll leave you with this simple reminder: kindness is magic. It doesn’t cost a thing, yet it has a way of brightening someone’s day—including your own. May we all sprinkle a little extra kindness around this week.