News from the nest, September 16
Good Morning from stormy southeastern North Carolina. I’m on the record as a lover of stormy days, but now that I have a high-energy pup, my fondness for rainy days is somewhat diminished. After I publish our newsletter this morning, I’ll don my rainboots and raincoat to head out for a three-mile walk with Elsa.
There is a place for her to run near our home, but we won’t be doing that today. We played that game on Friday, and this is how it ended.
Table of Contents
And if you were to ask me what I’m up to lately, this picture explains everything. I’m simultaneously keeping Elsa busy and cleaning up after Elsa.
New on the Blog
- Loaded with a medley of fresh vegetables, tender barley, and a hint of umami from dried mushrooms, this Vegetable and Barley Soup is a delicious and nutritious way to embrace the season. Cannellini beans add protein to the soup, making it even more filling. It’s the perfect healthy soup for a rainy day…or any day!
From the Knit + Crochet Studio
- I’m not even close to a seamstress, but if I can make these Linen Cocktail napkins, so can you. I’m also working on my other Grandma’s 40+-year-old sewing machine, so while you do need a sewing machine, you don’t need a fancy one. The simple crochet border adds a certain je ne sais quoi! I walk you through the process.
- With this Free Knit Garter Stitch Trivet Pattern and a spool of rope, you could knit several handy trivets in a day!
From the Kitchen
If you are feeling Fall-ish, these two treats will certainly confirm that feeling.
- These Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars check all the boxes…and are an easy way to get that ‘taste of fall’. As I write, I’m internally debating my need to make these bars today!
- Bite-size, savory cheddar cheese crackers, cut with mini-leaf cookie cutters for the perfect fall snack.
- Making your own Homemade Vegetable Broth is simple and yields a much more flavorful broth than store-bought options. In addition to the recipe, this post provides a list of recommended vegetables for the broth and vegetables to avoid. It also includes instructions for optionally canning the vegetable broth for pantry storage. You can make the vegetable broth using a slow cooker or stovetop.
- Make this Nomato Sauce Recipe for an AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) compliant, nightshade vegetable-free tomato sauce substitution. This sauce is also gluten-free and vegan. Instructions for both stovetop and instant pot preparation are provided.
- This mouthwatering crockpot turkey chili recipe is a lifesaver for busy days. Tender ground turkey simmering in a rich, flavorful broth with aromatic spices, beans, and veggies. It’s the ultimate “set and forget” meal, ideal for everything from game days to chilly evenings. Plus, with both crockpot and stovetop instructions provided, you can enjoy this hearty and healthy chili no matter your cooking style.
- Preparing a large batch of this spicy, smokey chili powder recipe ensures you never run out of this essential seasoning mix. Additionally, this post discusses the differences between Chili Powder and Chile Pepper.
- A little spicy and a little smoky, this Jalapeño Cheese Spread is an easy-to-make appetizer and perfect when spread on crackers or little rye toasts.
- If you love the tangy flavor of sourdough and are looking for a creative way to use up your sourdough starter discard, these homemade sourdough discard tortillas are the perfect solution. Not only do they help minimize kitchen waste, but they also add a unique twist to traditional tortillas with their subtle sourdough taste.
From the Arts + Crafts Studio
- I love a good faux project and this faux copper tub is one of my favs!
In the Home
- I know it’s a tired refrain, but doesn’t it seem that life has just gotten crazier and busier? We have all these tools to simplify, but it just seems that we are going in the wrong direction. If, like me, you are looking for ways to slow down and make life simpler, check out these tips.
- In this beginner tutorial, you will find detailed, step-by-step illustrated instructions on how to construct a console table or sofa table. The guide also includes recommended tools and materials to help you along the way.
Some Fun Finds and a Few Favorites
Some of these are affiliate links and I will earn a small commission off of the sale of these products, but the price you are charged is not affected. You can see my full disclosure policy here
- With all the bread I’ve been baking, we desperately needed a good bread knife. I was tickled to find this highly-rated bread knife at a VERY REASONABLE price. We’ve been using it for several months and it has proven to be a great bread knife that cuts through my sourdough boules without mushing them down!
- For the ice cream lover in your family. A single-serve ice cream maker! 🤩
- I just ordered one of these for that one cabinet in my kitchen that is jam-packed and hard to access.
- I love these hanging witch hats for Halloween decor!
- Adorable Halloween pillow covers.
Well, my friends, thanks for visiting today!
I think I need a Plan B for Elsa! At 9 a.m. it is very dark and very stormy…not sure a walk is in the offing anytime soon.
Wish me luck!
Hugs,
I have now made 8 sets of the knitted trivets. I have many different colors, to coordinate with the knitted dish cloths, that I have also made. Everyone that has seen them absolutely loves them! I am currently working through matching kitchen gadgets and/or homemade cutting boards (bought my husband a wood laser cutter for Father’s Day), to make a kitchen “basket” gift for family and friends this holiday season.
I do so love reading your newsletters every week. Thank you for the time that you spend putting such great information together.
Kathy,
Oh my heavens, you are on it! I’d love to see photos of your trivets and your gift baskets! And what great gifts your baskets will make!
Thanks for sharing your creativity and your most kind comments! I always love hearing from you.
Hugs,