the Weekender

Cozy fall scene featuring a coffee mug, lit candle, dried flower on a notebook, and chunky knit blanket with a white border and "cozy days" text overlay.

It’s been one of those weeks filled with appointments, dog walks, work, cleaning, and all the little things that keep life moving. Busy? Absolutely! But I wouldn’t have it any other way. There’s something comforting about the rhythm of everyday life, even when the days feel a little full. ❤️

Miscellany:

1. Bonfire Bliss 🔥

Last weekend, we had our first bonfire of the season, and oh my goodness, it was wonderful! It was a chilly evening, but between the warmth of the fire, the crackling wood, and that unmistakable smell of a bonfire, my heart was so happy. Sitting around a fire on a cold evening makes everything feel a little cozier. It’s definitely one of my favorite things about this time of year.

2. Well, That’s a Bummer! 🦷

I had my routine dentist appointment this week, and let’s just say I wasn’t expecting any surprises. I’ve been going every six-ish months like clockwork, so imagine my shock when I learned I have TWO small cavities. TWO! I’m still recovering from the devastating news. Haha! Okay, maybe that’s a little dramatic, but seriously? I did not see that coming. Apparently, even grown-ups who faithfully brush, floss and show up for their cleanings aren’t immune to a little dental drama.

p.s. I may be endulging in a few too many Winter Green Lifesavers lately (insert face palm).

3. A Sigh of Relief 🤍

I also had my annual mammogram this week. I’m not sure if I shared this last year, but I had a bit of a scare that required additional testing. Thankfully, everything turned out fine, but I would be lying if I said that experience didn’t leave me a little anxious going into this year’s appointment. I spent some time praying over it, asking God for peace and good results. I was so thankful to see my results already available in the patient portal, and from what I can tell, everything looks good! I’m incredibly grateful and hopeful that this year’s screening is officially behind me with no concerns. Such a blessing, and definitely a reminder not to take our health for granted.

4. A Weekend to Look Forward To 🎉

We have some extra fun on the calendar this weekend! A very dear family friend, someone I’ve known since elementary school, is in town visiting. She’s been a part of our family’s lives for as long as I can remember, so it’s always special when we get to spend time together. We’ll also be celebrating my dad’s birthday with dinner at Ozark Mill in Ozark, Missouri. It’s one of my favorite places, so you better believe I’m looking forward to that! Good food, familiar faces, and a little birthday celebrating? Sounds like a wonderful weekend to me.

5. A Little Pretty Little Liars Reunion 🎬

Did any of you watch Pretty Little Liars back in the day? If so, you’ll appreciate this! Lucy Hale and Ian Harding are starring together in a holiday romantic comedy called The 12 Dates of Christmas, streaming on Hulu and Disney+. I watched it last weekend, and it was super cute! It was so much fun seeing those two back on screen together in a completely different storyline. If you’re looking for something lighthearted and festive to watch, this one is worth adding to your list.

6. Officially Back in My Hallmark Era! 🎄

Eeks! I am officially back in my Hallmark Christmas movie era, and I couldn’t be happier! I have the Countdown to Christmas movie schedule saved on my phone, and I’ve been happily checking off the new releases as I watch them. Anyone else doing the same? I just love these movies. They’re sweet, feel-good stories filled with romance, family, second chances, and those little life lessons that warm your heart. Sure, we usually know how they’re going to end, but isn’t that part of the charm? Give me all the cozy small towns, twinkling Christmas lights, and happily-ever-afters. I’m here for every single minute of it!

7. A Christmas Tree with a Little Extra Meaning 🎄

With the holidays right around the corner, I wanted to share one of my favorite Christmas projects from earlier this year—my Christmas Quote Tree! Instead of traditional ornaments, I decorated a small tabletop tree with meaningful quotes, velvet ribbon, and wooden beads. The sweetest part? Guests can take a quote that speaks to them and replace it with another. It’s such a simple way to spread a little encouragement, spark conversation, and maybe even start a new holiday tradition. Sometimes the smallest things hold the most meaning. ❤️

A tabletop Christmas tree decorated with quote cards, wooden bead garland, and red velvet ribbon.

Around the Web:

These Moments of Humanity — an uplifiting post.

Love to color? I recently purchase this coloring book. 🥰

This Harvest Table Decor.

These DIY Clay Bowl Place Card Holders.

This DIY Christmas Claw Machine. So CLEVER!

Make your own Leather Blanket Carrier — great for gifting too!

This Whipped Honey Butter (plus Cinnamon Honey Butter).

These Mashed Sweet Potatoes. Yes, please!

This Spicy Sausage and Vegetable Soup will warm you up this winter.

Slightly obsessed with this perforation cutter. Oh the possibilities!

One Last Hoorah:

The Last Hoorah 🤍

As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season approaches, I hope you’ll remember to slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy the little things along the way. It’s so easy to get caught up in the shopping, decorating, planning, and endless to-do lists that we forget what matters most. Give yourself permission to embrace the imperfect, cherish the moments, and make room for a little peace and joy. My prayer is that this season brings more laughter than stress, more gratitude than worry, and plenty of beautiful moments with the people you love. Remember, the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be wonderful. ❤️