Saturday Meanderings

Am I the only one who cannot believe we are half way through September? There is a very slight shift in the weather and it seems to be the beginning of fall temperatures entering the Southwest. The mornings are in the mid-70s but we are still at high 90s to low 100s during the day. Hard to get any outside work done. But here it is Saturday and it’s time to chat about all good things this week.

Virtual Friends

I seem to have a love/hate relationship with social media. It can be a rabbit hole and consume productive time. But one of the unexpected benefits are the friendships I’ve made with people I have never met in person.

One such virtual friend heard about Cooper’s passing. He sent our family a box of soothing teas and treats for our remaining dog, Sox. He also included a beautiful photo he had taken that is representative of Cooper’s soul passing up to heaven. I am so touched by his grace, kindness and generosity in taking the time to do all those things. Just when you think the world is so mean and cruel, one is given hope and blessed with the unexpected love from others.

He also sent me a picture of his favorite dog and I love the mood, depth and colors, I just had to share it with you. This is a reminder to all of us to just be kind. You never know who will need and appreciate your gesture. Long ago, I wrote a post on Kindness and if you need a reminder, you can read it here.

Be Careful what You Buy Online

Twice now, I made the mistake of buying something online too quickly, often lured in by beautiful photos. The first one was for two blouses and I completed the purchase through PayPal. When they arrived nearly 8 weeks later (manufacturer out of the country obviously), the size, quality and stitching was so bad they could not be worn. I quickly reached out to the manufacturer and returned them with delivery confirmation to the address given.

Even though I had confirmation of the items returned, I never received a refund. PayPal did nothing with the claim I filed and to this day, I try not to use them. Ever try to get PayPal to react or respond? It’s impossible. The manufacturer stated I had returned the items to the wrong address, even though I had proof of the address they provided. I’m still a little ticked over the whole thing.

But, in another stupid move, I ordered 2 wreaths recently while perusing Pinterest. The ad shows beautiful fall wreaths with an incentive to buy two for a better price. My first clue that something was wrong is that I didn’t get a confirmation email on my purchase. After some digging, I was able to reach out to the party who received my payment.

The wreaths arrived yesterday and horrible, would be a generous word for them. Not only are they small (unlike the lush photos), they smell funny too. I hoping all isn’t lost because I plan to dis-assemble them and at least use some the pieces in making a new wreath.

Make sure you are buying from a reputable source. Check the public comments on the product. If none exist, beware, as this is an indication of a newly formed business.

Lesson learned….finally.

What Were You Doing a Year Ago?

Since I am always searching for good quality photos for my blog, I get the opportunity to scan my photos from months and years ago. I am always amazed at how much life can change in a year. What is the saying? Wait a year and things will be different.

A year ago at this time, I was back east cleaning out my Aunt Gail’s home in Connecticut. For those who are new to the blog, my Aunt Gail passed away just before her 101st birthday. She lived independently to the end, never had help and was sharp as a tack. With no children, she made me executor, but shared little information while she was alive. It was a labor of love to figure everything out. Fast forward to now, a year later, and her home has sold and the estate is finally settled.

Fun Finds Around the Net

When I was in college, I had a seasonal job at Hickory Farms. Since I paid my own way through college, getting a job at a store with food is a bonus. During the holidays, the Hickory Farms cheese ball was a best seller. I was relegated to the basement of the mall, where for hours, I made cheese balls. I don’t believe I have made or eaten a cheese ball since. And surprisingly, Hickory Farms is still in business!

So I had to chuckle when I read Tatertots & Jello’s post on a Jalapeño Popper Pumpkin-Shaped Cheese ball. But, honestly, isn’t this the perfect fall appetizer? After nearly 4 decades of avoiding cheese balls, I think this recipe might be a winner. You can find it here.

Mini Fall Bundt Cakes

Fall food must be top of mind for me as I am drawn to this sweet fall dessert by Janine from Happy Happy Nester. If you are like me and have saved your pumpkin stems, what a great way to use them. This would be a fun fall dessert for a dinner or tailgate party. You can find it here.

Fall Flowers DIY Pillow Cover

This is such a cute DIY if you have any fabric scraps (and I have plenty). Rachel from The Ponds Farmhouse, another dear virtual friend, gives a great tutorial on how to make these. Rachel’s farmhouse style is different than mine, but I honestly learn something new from her every week. Read a few posts and you’ll feel like you’re visiting a good friend.

The sky is the limit on how you want your pillow to look. See all of Rachel’s cleverness here.

Before I sign off, I want to share with you this fun, spiky flower that is blooming right now in our yard. It’s a Red Spider Lily~Lycoris Red Radiata. It can handle full sun, is deer resistant and attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. Also makes a perfect addition to cut flower arrangements. I find it miraculous that something so beautiful can appear in the most severe weather.

Have a beautiful, rewarding and relaxing weekend.