Food Compilation for August

                 A Tasty Look Back at August 

August was a month full of flavor around our table from comforting pasta dishes to smoky backyard favorites. Our meals carried a little bit of everything. We kick things off with the wedding cake from Kara and Dylan‘s wedding. We had Mexican food with bold spices, then turn to classic spaghetti and cheesy ravioli for cozy homemade comfort. Of course, summer wouldn’t be complete without fire up the grill, hot links and ribs made their way on our plates, bringing that smoky, tender goodness we all crave this time of the year and to finish things off sweetly gooey some more brownies, hit the spot, reminded us of summer nights and campfire traditions.

 

Wedding Cake from Kara and Dylan’s wedding 

By the time I made it to the food table there wasn’t much food left. So I put the beans on the bread and it took me back to my childhood. There is just something about having BBQ food at weddings. 

Fried ham and fried eggs for breakfast.

Baked beans with smoked sausage and hamburger meat. It’s a great one-pot meal.

Eating at our favorite Mexican restaurant.

We shared a cheeseburger and onion rings from Sonic

Love street tacos 

The chips and dip are always a big hit 

Egg rolls are always so good.

Grilled hamburgers and steak at Brody’s. He definitely has become a grill master on his new grill.

Home made enchiladas for 5he win.

 Geese ravioli for the win. Yummy and easy to make

S’more brownies

Hot links are the best

Spaghetti 

Great comfort food beans,fried potatoes with onions, smoke sausage andcornbread with jalapeños in it..

Looking back, Augustus Mills were a mix of comfort, tradition, and just plain deliciousness. It’s always fun to see how the months menu tells its own story, one of family, flavors, and the little moments of joy gathered around the table.

I can’t wait to see what dishes September brings!

A Saturday well spent

                          Movies, Bridal Shower, & Shopping 

Some Saturdays feel extra full, and August 30th was  definitely one of those days. Mr. C. and I started our morning slow, which is always a treat on the weekend. We woke up around 6:30 AM and curled up with a couple of movies. First was Culprit, which turned out to a really good movie. Then we watched The Hungting Ground, it was filled with drama and some disturbing scenes.  By the time the credits rolled, it was already time for me to get ready for the day ahead.

The main event for the morning was Kaitlyn’s bridal shower in Elgin at her fiancé mom‘s home. It started at noon so I grabbed the card I had prepared with $25 for her honeymoon fund and headed out. I’ll be bringing a separate gift for Ethan and Kaitlyn‘s wedding itself. 

When I arrived, I was struck by how beautiful everything was decorated. Right at the entryway was a table set up with a cute, welcome, sign, and fun games, guessing the candy in a jar, leaving a date, night ideal, And offering advice for the soon to be newlyweds. My ideal was a creative one-and immersive art experience at mix-tape at Factory Obscura in Oklahoma City. Above the table, balloons spelled out bride, which added such a cheerful touch.

This is where Kaitlyn will be opening her gifts. The stunning balloon, arch, with boots filled with silk flowers in shades of peach, yellow, red and greens. It was clear the theme was “ Flowers of many colors,” and it gave the whole space, a lovely and joyful atmosphere.

And then there was the food-Wow! The buffet was overflowing with delicious options: Two different vegetable tries with dips, fresh fruit (Grapes, blueberries, strawberries, and apple slices) with fruit dip, Pasta salad, chicken, salad, sandwiches, ham, and cheese, sliders, crackers, and cheese and chips. 

The desserts were just as tempting; Decorated gourmet cookies, homemade wedding cookies, chocolate-Dipped strawberries, and cupcakes. Sweet tea and lemonade, rounded it all out perfectly.

After the shower wrapped up, I headed home where Whitney met me at 2 PM for our afternoon shopping adventures. Our first Stop was basket market in Oklahoma City. Whitney has a love for Christmas decor, while I was on the hunt for fall items for my porch. She enjoyed browsing the holiday treasures, while I snagged several gift boxes, a Christmas ornament, and a set of assorted pumpkins for my porch decor this year.

From there, we made our way to a couple of thrift stores. I’ve always loved thrifting-It feels like a little treasure hunt. At one store, I found a pretty full arrangement that will work perfectly with the porch set up I’ve been imagining.

Dinner was at Bubba‘s 33, Which has a little bit of everything; Pizzas, pasta, burgers, and more. I went with a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, which was absolutely delicious. While Whitney ordered the Monte Cristo sandwich-And let me just say it looked and tasted amazing. We both loved it so much that we ended up buying matching Bubba 33 T-shirts before we left!

The loaded cheese fries were very tasty!

Our next stop is Burlington, where I picked up some new shower items. I couldn’t resist the pineapple scented line, and I also grab some cherry, scented items along with two  deodorant’s. 

From there, we treated ourselves to smoothie king, I tried the lemonade- strawberry twist, smoothie, which was so refreshing-perfect for this season since I’ve been really enjoying Strawberry-Lemonade flavors lately.

By the time we pulled back into the driveway, it was 8 PM- a long but fun filled Saturday. Looking back, it amazes me how much we packed into the day. From celebrating Kate at her beautiful shower to shopping, thrifting,eating, and laughing with Whitney, it was the kind of Saturday that left me tired but happy. Sometimes, the best days are the ones where you just keep moving from one joy to the next.

As I think back on it now, I’m grateful-For family milestones, for friends to shop and laugh with, and for simple pleasures like a good sandwich or a perfect fall decoration. Life is busy, but days like this remind me that joy often comes in little pieces scattered throughout the day. All we have to do is notice them.
   

A Tuesday in My Shoes

    From Call Center Calls to Evenings at Home

Some days seem to fly by faster than others, and for me, Tuesdays often hold a unique rhythm all their own. Not quite the the fresh start of Monday, not quite the middle-of-the week, push of Wednesday, but something in between. Tuesday, August 26th, unfolded like so many others in my life- a steady balance between the busyness of work and the comforts of home. Looking back, I realize how much joy can be found in the ordinary especially when we slow down enough to appreciate it. 

                                Early Morning Beginnings 

My alarm goes off around 5:00 AM, though truthfully, I often wake up a few minutes before it sounds. There’s something peaceful about early hours, when the world outside is quiet and calm. My morning usually starts with a cup or tea in hand while I catch up on last night nights news headlines and scroll through my emails. It’s a habit I’ve kept for years. I also will in my private journal. Something about being informed and organized helps me start the day with a clear mind. 

I take a little time to get myself ready for work, making sure I’m out the door by 6:30 AM sharp. My shift at the call center starts at 7:30 AM. My commute is 30 minutes.

                                                       Stepping into Work Mode 

        When I arrive at the office and log into my computer, I can already see members waiting in queue. Even on Tuesday-typically one of our slower days. One thing I’ve learned in this line of work is how quickly patience wears thin when someone has been kept waiting. By the time I answer, many callers are already frustrated, and it becomes part of my job, not only to solve their problems, but also to ease their irritation. 

It’s not always easy, but I remind myself that behind each call is a person with their own story, their own needs. My monthly goal is 250 saves. That means helping members resolve their concerns, so they choose to stay with us rather than leaving. On average, I aim for 12 saves a day to keep myself on track. Meeting those goals can feel like a challenge, but it’s also rewarding to know I’ve made a difference in someone’s decision to stay.

                                   Wrapping up the Workday 

By the time, 4 PM Rose around, I’m more than ready to head home. My commute back to Rush Springs takes about half an hour, and I’ve grown to enjoy that time. Depending on my mood, I’ll either make some phone calls, or I’ll simply let music feel the space. Some drops feel like conversations, others like little moments of solitude. Either way, is the transition that helps me leave the workday behind and shift my mind toward home.

                                Evenings in Rush Springs

When I walked through the door, i’m greeted by the comforting smells of dinner already cooking. My husband takes care of most of the cooking in our household. He has such a gift for it, and I’ll admit he has spoiled me completely in this department tonight, as with most nights, he’s prepared as a hearty meal the kind you look forward to all day long.

We always make it a point to sit down at the dining room table together no distractions just conversations. This time of the day is one of my favorites. We share details of our day, what went well, and what frustrations we faced. It may not sound like much, but these daily check ins keep us connected. 

After dinner, we usually migrate to the living room. Sometimes it’s the news, other times it’s a series we are watching together. It’s nothing extravagant, but it’s our way of winding down, being present with one another, and enjoying the comfort of our home. 

Tonight it was a night of beans, homemade jalapeño cornbread, fried potatoes with onions. A favorite meal for us. 

                                A Quiet Nighttime Routine

Tonight my shower routine is based on peach scented items. 

By the time evening, Rose round, I’m ready for bed earlier than most people. My nightly routine usually includes scrolling through TikTok or catching up on YouTube videos from channels I enjoy. It’s a way to unplug my mind from the day, even if it means staring at the screen for a bit longer than I should. I try to wind everything down around 9:00 PM, giving myself the chance to rest and recharge before the next day begins. 

                                Finding beauty in the ordinary 

As a reflect on this Tuesday, what stands out to me the most is not a single big event, but the string of little moments that shaped the day. The calm of an early morning, the challenges and victories of work, the comfort of a warm meal, the laughter shared over conversation, and the slow winding down at night. 

It’s easy to overlook days like these, to brush them off as routine or ordinary. But I think these are the days that matter most. They may not make the headlines of our lives, but they are the threads that hold everything together. and just like that, another Tuesday has come and gone. Nothing too fancy nothing too wild -just the rhythm  from early mornings with tea and the news, to the busy hum of the the call center, to the comfort of home-cooked dinners and a quiet evening with Mr. C. It’s these simple routines that keep me grounded. Each day may look ordinary on paper but together they make up a life I’m grateful for.

 

Slow and Sweet Sundays at Home

 

Sometimes Sundays are meant for adventure but today was all about home comforts. Instead of heading out for our usual “Sunday Funday” I leaned into a slower pace, and was just what I needed.

The kitchen became my cozy corner this morning. I prepared cheese ravioli to tuck away for a few easy work lunches this week, and the oven carried the rich chococolatey aroma of s’more brownies that will make the perfect treat later. There’s something so satisfying about stocking up on homemade goodness before a busy week begins. 

I also turned my attention to the house. The guest bedroom is now fresh and ready for Kyndall and Liam’s next visit (and yes, their parents too!). A quick reset in the bathroom brought everything back into order~counters wiped, bath products neatly put away, and the floors shining again.

The best part of the day, though, was simply being with Mr. C.  We spent the afternoon catching up on Netflix, chatting about our upcoming plans, and just enjoying the quiet rhythm of being home.

Two Netflix shows we watched was American Murder: The Family Nextdoor and also Ad Vitam. Both were decent to watch. 

 As the weekend winds down, I feel refreshed and ready to stop into a new work week. Sometimes, the sweetest Sundays, are the ones spent right where you are. 

Watermelon Jam Recipe

A Taste of Rush Springs: Homemade Watermelon Jam

With Rush Springs being well known for their watermelons, I just have to share this easy watermelon jam recipe with you. There’s something special about homemade jam-it simply taste fresher and better than anything store bought. This vegan-friendly jam recipe is easy to make and a perfect way to use those local,  homegrown watermelons. 

Watermelons might not be the first fruit you think of for jam, but trust me-it makes a light, refreshing spread that’s perfect on toast, bisquits, or even swirled into yogurt. Plus, it’s a fun way to hold onto that taste of summer a little longer. 

Ingredients 

4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed and blended into juice.

2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh is best)

3 cups of sugar 

1 box of fruit pectin

Instructions

1. Prepare the watermelon

Cut cucumber into cubes, remove any seeds. Blend until smooth the measure out 4 cups of juice.

2. Cook the mixture

In a large pot, combine the watermelon juice and lemon juice. Stir in the fruit pectin and bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium high heat.

3. Add sugar

Once boiling, add all the sugar at once. Store continuously and return to a full rolling boil. Let it boil hard for one to two minutes.

4. Check consistency

Remove from the heat and skim off any foam. To test at the gym is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it thickens as it calls, it’s set

5. Jar the jam

Carefully lot of the hot jam into sterilize jars, leaving in about 1/4 inch a space at the top. White rims, seal and process in a hot water bath for about 10 minutes.

Tips and serving ideals

Try spreading watermelon jam on a warm biscuit or scone for a sweet taste.

It also pairs beautifully with cream cheese and crackers for a quick appetizer.

This recipe makes about 5 to 6 half-pint jars, perfect for sharing or storing away for later. Every bite is like capturing a little taste of summer sunshine!

Just like the Rush Springs watermelon festival brings people together to celebrate community and summertime sweetness, this jam captures that same spirit in a jar. Whether you’re spreading it on toast at breakfast or gifting, a jar to a friend, you’re bringing a little piece of Oklahoma’s summer to tradition right into your kitchen.

  

Iron Flame Book Review

 

By Rebecca Yarros

Fantasy Romance

Published October 31 2023

Iron Flame is the second book in the Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros,  released in November 2023. It builds directly on the events of Fourth Wing and continues Violet’s harrowing journey through dragon-rider training and revolution. 

Story highlights 

-Immediate Aftermath- The book begins with Violet grappling with shocking truths: her brother Brennan is alive and leading a rebellion. There’s a dangerous creature called Verin beyond Nevvarreis wards,and her love interest, Xaden, has been hiding secrets.

-Back at BasgiathWar College-

Violet returns for her second year, facing brutal training under a sadistic new vice president, Major Varrish, while her dragon Andorra, undergoes a mysterious sleep-like transformation.

-Secrets and Mistrust-

Her relationship with Xaden continues to strain under secrets and conflicting ideals of trust. Meanwhile, Violet distances herself from some friends, with betrayals like Dain’s memory-readings, and steps deeper into revolutionary plots. 

-Uncovering Ancient Lore-

Violet and her allies steal long-lost journals of the First Six-the creators of Novarre Wards- hoping to learn how to fix the failing shields protecting their world. 

-Capture and Torture-

Varrish eventually captures Violet, torturing her for information. Dain intervenes, stabbing Varrish, and Xaden arrives to rescue Violet as he professes his love. 

-Rebellion Rises-

The truth about the venting is finally revealed to the school. Many students join the rebellion. A new base is built in Aretia rallying more allies- including Violet’s sister, Mira

-Dramatic Finale-

The venin attack Basgiath, overwhelming its wardstone. Violet discovers Andarna’s vital role in restoring the wards-only to lose her mother. Who sacrifices herself to power the magic. Xaden seeking to protest Violet, channels venin magic, himself changing the stakes-and himself forever. 

Characters navigate a web of secrets, loyalty, and betrayal. Violet’s struggle between honesty and survival is consistently on her mind. 

The magics, politics, and history of the Empyrean universe deepen in this installments: ancient ward love, terrifying venin, and darker magic take the forefront. 

I had no clue this series was so good.  Personally I do like the fantasy and steam punk romance. It did have several steamy scenes, intense chemistry. The perfect book for me! 

If you haven’t started this series yet. I highly recommend it to you! 

  

Midlife My Way

Becoming Me At 58

There’s something about reaching midlife that makes you a little more reflective – or maybe a lot more. Lately I find myself pausing to ask. “ Am I where I want to be? Do I need to change anything going forward?” These aren’t gloomy thoughts, just honest ones. With age,  perspective, and the older I get, the more clearly I see how each season of my life – good, bad, and everything in between – has shaped me

I’ve had years filled with struggles, disappointments, and what felt like setbacks. At the time, those moments knocked the wind out of me. But when I looked back now, I realize things could have been worse. In fact, those bad years taught me lessons that no easy road ever could. Each season sharpened me a little, toughen me a little, and made me a little wiser.

And here’s the best part of growing older: I finally finally don’t care what people think about me. Do you know how freeing that is? To embrace who I am, quirks and all, without worrying about whether I “fit”? It’s like throwing off a heavy coat you didn’t realize you were wearing. These days, if there’s something I want to do, I don’t put it on the.” One of these days shelf.” I start making plans, clear my schedule, and just go for it.

No more waiting. No more apologizing. No more trying to fit into a particular group or social circle. If people don’t like me, that’s OK. I’ve discovered I don’t have the time, patience, or energy for drama – or fake friends. My circle of friends has shrunk considerably over the years. Some drifted away and, yes, I was sad to lose them. Others well, I was secretly glad they let themselves out. (No hard feelings, but life is too short for toxicity.)

What’s left now is a very small, but very solid circle. The people who remain are the ones who matter most, the ones I can laugh with, cry with, and be completely myself around. Quality over quantity – is a cliché for a reason. 

And then there’s my husband. Let me just say, I hit the jackpot with him. He’s been my rock from the very beginning, my partner in crime, my sounding board, and – yes it’s true – my best friend. He doesn’t always get me 100% but honestly who could? I’m grateful he gets me most of the time, and that’s enough. After all these years, he’s still the one I’d rather spend a Friday night with than anyone else. That, to me is priceless.

So where does that leave me in this Midlilfe season? Surprisingly… Happy. Not because everything is perfect – because it’s not. But because I’m finally embracing life my way. I don’t have to chase acceptance, approval, or popularity. I don’t have to waste time on people or situations that drain me and I don’t have to put all the things I’ve always wanted to do until.” Someday.”

Ollie’s mini haul

Cherrie and I do like stopping by Ollie’s as you never know what they will have. I had seen several people sharing their scrapbook supplies they bought from Ollie’s. I wasn’t sure I would find any at the Ollie’s I shop at, which is Lawton Oklahoma and Norman Oklahoma. So glad Norman, Ok had plenty of items to choose from! 

I really needed alphabet stickers. I don’t normally use a lot of these type of stickers, but now that I have them I will be incorporating them in my journals. 

The different stickers I picked up will be a great addition to my sticker collection. Several of these are not what I would normally buy. Although I do know I will use them. I also will send Kyndall stickers as well for her sticker book.