New from the nest, september 30
Good Monday Morning!
First things first, as someone who has been on the receiving end of a hurricane’s wrath, let’s do what we can for our friends in Western North Carolina. Here on the coast, we know we are liable to encounter the heavy rains and winds and are prepared for them. Our homes and infrastructures are built to standards that other areas don’t require. That the mountains of North Carolina were subjected to that fury without being adequately prepared is heartbreaking.
We have just returned from a very quick trip to my alma mater, Penn State, for homecoming. It was wonderful to reunite with friends and acquaintances, some of whom I haven’t seen in 40 years! Wow, that caused me to gulp as I typed it out!
And it’s funny, I look at myself and think I have changed so much since those college days, but in fact, we don’t change! Everyone looks the same, just a bit more…vintage.
The football game was a fun one. We won, but it was hard-fought.
We had never left Elsa before, so we were very happy to return to our girl, who was also very happy to see us. I’m home for a while, but Terry leaves in a couple of days for a long weekend in Ohio to take Kate to a football game at his alma mater.
Table of Contents
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A Random Tip
You may already know this, but most of the time, if something you recently purchased subsequently goes on sale, the merchant will often refund the savings you would have received if you just bought it. I made a BIG splurge two weeks ago on this garland and wreath for my front door at Grandin Road, and now, it is 20% off. I chatted with them yesterday, and the refund was already in my account this morning!
I’ve been using my parents’ hand-me-down garland for years, but I decided I wanted a little more color for my now more neutral home. I’m excited to get it up!
New on the Blog
I feel a little lousy publishing these Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls because they are so good! And if you are anything like me, any willpower you heretofore possessed will melt away when the aroma of these baking rolls wafts through your home. That disclaimer made, these Sourdough cinnamon rolls are the perfect blend of tangy sourdough flavor and buttery cinnamon sugar’s sweet, comforting taste. Unlike traditional yeast-based cinnamon rolls, this recipe incorporates a sourdough starter, giving the dough that depth of flavor and a soft, fluffy texture you only get from sourdough.
From the Knit + Crochet Studio
- For my knit and/or crochet friends, I’d love to know what kinds of projects you are interested in. If you would like input about the types of knit and crochet projects we publish, please take this quick survey.
- As the temperatures start to turn, you may be looking for a new knit blanket pattern. I have all eleven free knit blanket patterns in one place here for your perusal.
- When knitting a large project such as a blanket, you will need to join yarn multiple times. I used only to do it at the edges, but that wasted so much yarn. Now, I use the Russian Join, which creates a join that is almost undetectable.
- After you’ve finished knitting your blanket or other project, it’s important to block it. While you could skip this step, taking the time to block your knitting will make a big difference in how your finished project looks. It will give it a more polished and professional appearance, which is especially important if you plan to give your knit project as a gift. This post shows how to block your knitting.
- Crochet a bookmark crafted with your favorite embroidery floss colors. This sweet, free crochet bookmark pattern brings a touch of nature and whimsy to your reading routine and makes a great gift for your favorite bibliophile!
From the Kitchen
- It is only appropriate to share this today, as I first tasted this spiked apple cider at a tailgate at Penn State. This cocktail recipe is like a cup of fall! The warm caramel cider is perfect for tailgating or sipping around the fire on a cool fall evening. It is an easy, super tasty, and warm alcoholic drink that is like Fall in a glass. If you were ever curious about what to mix with caramel vodka…look no further. This hot apple cider drink recipe is perfect.
- This Slow-Cooker Lentil Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal. It’s perfect for cooler days or any time you’re craving something comforting. The recipe also includes instructions for making this soup on the stove.
- This Mango Habanero Salsa Recipe is a delightful combination of ripe mangoes, spicy habanero peppers, zesty onions, and a blend of spices. This easy-to-make salsa is a refreshing departure from the typical tomato-based salsa. The fresh lime juice adds a tangy kick to the vibrant, sweet, and spicy flavors. It’s a perfect balance of refreshing and spicy. Make it for your next football watch party!
- Try this Savory Red Onion Jam recipe as a perfect condiment for sandwiches, pizzas, and a great addition to your meat and cheese platter. This Balsamic Onion Jam features red wine and subtle, earthy thyme. Canning this onion jam makes it a great food gift, as the addition of vinegar and wine raises the acidity, making it a perfect recipe for preserving onions. But, you can also refrigerate or freeze the jam.
- These 29 Healthy Recipes for Delicious Frugal Meals will help you eat well while not blowing your grocery budget.
From the Arts + Crafts Studio
- These inexpensive and easy-to-make DIY Oyster Shell Clusters will bring natural coastal charm to your home decor.
In the Home
- In this post, I will demonstrate how simple it is to restore an old wooden cutting board. We will cover the process of cleaning, sanitizing, sanding, and conditioning/refinishing an old or mistreated wooden cutting board.
- And then, here are some ideas for displaying all your cutting boards.
Books Read in 2024
At the end of every month, I share my ‘reviews’ of books I’ve read thus far in 2024 and where I stand relative to the goal of thirty-three books read I set for the year. Many of you have written that you enjoy and appreciate my ‘book reviews’ (if you can call them that!), but I always struggle with not giving too much away and am also cognizant that my likes are not everyone else’s.
I’m on my nineteenth book; I need to get busy if I’m going to meet my goal this year!
Well friends, Elsa and Terry just returned from a long walk in the woods and now Elsa needs a bath! 🤭
Wishing you a week of all the things you need and even a few that you don’t, but that you just really would like!
Hugs,
