News From The Nest, August 11
I had a moment this morning when I turned my calendar and it said today was the 11th! You know those moments when you are taking it all in and trying to figure out what is happening? I probably said something like, ‘It can’t be the 11th, what’s going on?’ I flipped back in my calendar and realized that, in fact, it is the 11th day of August; I just lost a few days somewhere along the way! 🤷🏼♀️
After being gone for most of the time since mid-May, I am reveling in our at-home time and making the most of it. We checked off everything that was on our Week of Work list, and then some! We enjoyed a wonderful dinner with friends, and I made a batch of dog food for Elsa and canned jars of chili for Terry’s lunches. And yes, I’ve just sprained my arm as I patted myself on the back! 😂
My mom is having surgery this week and will be staying with us for eight days, then my brother and SIL will come in town and stay with mom for another week. Anyway, mom likes soup for lunch, so I will also can some vegetable soup and white bean soup today. I’ve got to be honest, I enjoy opening my pantry and seeing jars of broths, stocks, soups, and preserves all lined up waiting to be enjoyed. I like knowing exactly what’s in each jar, and I appreciate being able to wash and reuse the jars.
This is a good time of the year to check your closet and identify Fall + Winter clothes that you didn’t wear last year. If you turned all your hangers backwards (and then hung them up the right way after you wore something), those items will be easily identified. Take them to your local Goodwill or Consignment Store soon as folks are starting to look for fall clothes.
Table of Contents
New on the Blog
The Granny Square crochet purse pattern is one of those projects that strikes the perfect balance between style and practicality. Roomy enough to hold your daily essentials but stylish enough that it feels fun. It is endlessly customizable—go neutral for an everyday bag, or choose bold, vibrant colors for a statement accessory that feels especially fun in summer. The pattern is beginner-friendly yet satisfying for experienced crocheters, and the finished bag looks anything but homemade (in the best way). Add your own touches—like lining, hardware, or a decorative strap—to make it uniquely yours. It’s the kind of project that’s just as enjoyable to make as it is to carry.
From the Knit and Crochet Studio
If you are interested in learning a new skill, this multi-post how to knit stitch tutorial walks you through the very foundation of knitting. Clear instructions and photos make it easy to master, and once you have this stitch down, you’ll be able to tackle so many of the patterns featured here on the site.
Bring a little love into your kitchen with this knit heart potholder pattern. The textured heart motif is both decorative and functional, making this a sweet handmade gift for any time, but just perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or to brighten your own cooking space.
This knit i-cord trivet pattern blends sturdy construction with simple beauty. It’s the kind of practical piece you’ll use daily, but it also makes a thoughtful, practical gift for anyone who appreciates something handmade.
From the Kitchen
Refreshing, tart, and just the thing for warm evenings, this margarita recipe keeps it classic with a perfect balance of citrus and tequila. Barbara says, “You deserve all the accolades attached to this Margarita recipe, and we all appreciate your sharing of a family tradition and formula! Superb! … I will use this every time a Fresh Margarita is desired.” It’s the ideal Summer Staple.
These high-fiber cookies are a smart way to satisfy your sweet tooth while sneaking in some extra nutrition. Susan has made them twice and says, “I think they are delicious! … Two cookies with some very dark chocolate on the side makes a lovely little dessert!” A great snack, dessert, or even breakfast if you like to start your day on a wholesome note.
Start your morning right with homemade sourdough bagels. Chewy on the outside, soft inside, and packed with that signature tang, they’re a perfect make-ahead breakfast.
These sourdough discard tortillas are soft, flavorful, and versatile enough for everything from tacos to breakfast wraps. They’d be perfect as a base for those chile-braised short rib tacos.
Speaking of tacos, these chile-braised short rib tacos are melt-in-your-mouth tender with deep, rich flavor. They’re a great weekend cooking project and would be even better wrapped in those homemade sourdough tortillas.
Sweet, savory, and rich, this savory onion jam adds a flavor boost to just about anything—cheese boards, grilled meats, even your favorite sandwich. Laura shares, “Our family and friends absolutely love this… with charcuterie boards, in grilled cheese sandwiches (with Brie is best) and … with cream cheese and crackers. This stuff is dangerously good.”
Capture the last of summer’s stone fruit with this spiced golden plum jam. Lori says, “I made a batch of your golden plum jam and boy was it a hit! … so good that a friend and I are going to make a bunch and give jars as Christmas presents.” A jar of this paired with homemade breads would make a most welcome gift.
From the Arts + Crafts Studio
This faux marble tray DIY turns simple, potentially discarded materials into something that looks high-end. It’s perfect for serving drinks, corralling coffee table items, or adding a touch of elegance to your vanity; you determine the size you make!
From the Garden
I don’t mean to imply that I don’t like mums (even if I’m a bit ‘meh’ on them), but if you’re looking for mum-less fresh color in your garden later in the year, these fall-blooming flowers are a good choice. From asters to Japanese anemones, they extend your garden’s beauty well past summer.
In the House + Home
Finally, this guide on how to organize table linens has practical ideas to keep napkins, runners, and tablecloths tidy and easy to find. With summer’s relentless heat and humidity, it’s the perfect time to stay indoors and get things in order!
