the Weekender

Happy hellos from my little corner of Missouri. A lot has happened since we last caught up, so let’s jump right in.

This week’s simple joy: hydrangeas. A gorgeous bluish-purple bunch snipped straight from my mom’s yard (see above). Up until a few days ago, they were brightening up my kitchen. Sometimes it’s the little things.

Miscellany:

1. Rain or Shine, We Yard Sale.

Last weekend was the big citywide yard sale. You guys — it rained and rained and rained. I was so disappointed (and not gonna lie, a little worried too). But guess what? We did a pre-sale on Thursday night when the skies were clear, and all things considered, we did great. I sold about $600, and my sister sold about $400. Another $1K garage sale in the books!

We packed up the leftovers, loaded them into the car, and drove them straight to the thrift store. Done and done.

2. Bentley Turns ONE!

Our sweet Bentley turned ONE! 🎉 We had a small family celebration. I whipped up this dog-friendly birthday cake (just four simple ingredients!) and it was a hit — tails wagged and bowls were licked clean.

For the humans? Lemon cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, paired with vanilla ice cream. Yes please.

Isn’t he the absolute cutest?

3. Vase Hunting Adventures.

This past week, I went on the hunt for white/milk glass vases — I’ve got a little patriotic decor idea brewing. I tried my luck on Facebook Marketplace and found just one, so I went off to a local antique shop. Seven vases later and $50 spent, I walked out one happy gal. Honestly, I don’t care if they’re authentic — they’re going to look darling. Considering a couple of similar ones on Etsy were going for $30+, I think I scored. Stay tuned!

4. A Backyard Wedding.

My brother tied the knot! The rain miraculously held off, and they had the sweetest backyard ceremony surrounded by family and close friends. Afterward, we celebrated with lunch and cake at Hemingways — such a joyful day. Welcome to the family, Ashly!

bride, groom and minister at a backyard wedding

5. Seint Summer Warehouse Sale!

Seint is having a big Summer Warehouse Sale — and friends, savings from 25-50% off select items. Some won’t be returning, so be sure to check out the Last Chance category too. A few of my personal faves:

Lovespell Lip and Cheek ($8.00) with a couple taps of Photoshop Illuminator ($9.00) in the center of the lip. Chefs kiss!
Cotton Candy Lip and Cheek — I dab this under my eyes for a little brightening magic.
Butterscotch Eyeshadow ($10.50) — beautiful on its own, especially for brown-eyed gals.
This Square Palette ($8.40) is the perfect little case for tossing a couple of lip and cheek shades into your purse.

6. A Slice of Cozy.

I shared this easy Homemade Carrot Cake recipe earlier this week. It brings comfort and flavor to any day of the week. A timeless bake that’s always a hit.

7. Weight Loss Wins.

Last week I was up 1.2 pounds and honestly, I was a little bummed. But I’m learning to embrace the ups and downs, especially knowing that lifting weights at the gym will shake up the scale.

This week? I finally hit my 20-pound mark! YES and AMEN! I was tickled silly. Progress, not perfection. I can do hard things. 💪

8. Happy Father’s Day!

Wishing a very Happy Father’s Day to all who love, guide, and inspire like a dad. You are so appreciated — today and every day. I know most of my readers are women; however, I want to be sure that I send out good vibes and wishes. I hope it’s a day filled with love, laughter, and a little well-deserved relaxation. ❤️

I look forward to celebrating my dad on Sunday with the fam bam. Smoked Brisket is on the menu. YUM.