Dehydrated Oranges for a Better Old Fashioned

I’ve started dehydrating oranges in my Breville air fryer, and they’ve become my favorite garnish for an Old Fashioned. It’s an easy step that makes a big difference. The dried slices keep their color, add a light citrus aroma, and look great in the glass without falling apart like fresh fruit.

Old Fashioneds are all about balance—sweetness, bitterness, and the depth of the whiskey. A dried orange slice adds a final touch that fits right in. As it warms in the drink, it releases a soft, concentrated citrus note that blends naturally with the bitters and bourbon.

The process is simple: slice the oranges evenly, dry them in the air fryer, and let them turn into crisp, bright rounds. They store well, last a long time, and are always ready when I want to make a drink feel a little more special.

It’s a small step, but it really elevates the whole experience.

 

Favorite Quotes from Books - My Friends by Fred Backman

Some quotes don’t just speak to us, they pause us. They make us notice the places where we’ve been shaped, challenged, lifted, or left wondering. These lines from My Friends trace the quiet ways confidence is taken, the power of presence, the ache of loss, and the miracles found in belief and love. They remind us that we are formed not only by what we endure, but also by those who see us, carry us, and help us rise.

Below are the quotes that resonated with me most, followed by my reflections in red.

"A lack of self-confidence is a devastating virus. There’s no cure. "Confidence isn’t lost by accident. It’s taken, slowly, by the world around us.

"Adults often think that self-confidence is something a child learns, but little kids are by their nature always invincible, it’s self-doubt that needs to be taught." We aren’t born questioning ourselves. Someone teaches us to.

"Art is what we leave of ourselves in other people." Every story told, every brushstroke shared, becomes a quiet legacy.

"You can choose to be alone, but no one chooses to be left." Solitude is a decision. Abandonment is a wound.

"Yet the most remarkable thing about losing a parent is that you don’t even need to miss them for their loss to be felt. The basic function of a parent is just to exist. You have to be there, like ballast in a boat, because otherwise your child capsizes." Presence itself is a form of protection.

"The world is full of miracles, but none greater than how far a young person can be carried by someone else’s belief in them." Sometimes faith is the only foundation someone gets.

"Disappointment is a powerful thing. Used correctly, it is stronger than fear, more terrible than physical pain, if you see it in the eyes of the one you love, you’ll do almost anything to make it stop." Love motivates change more deeply than fear ever can.

"He said that thing that you always said, the thing that painter said. That you should paint like the birds sing. But (he) said it was never like that for him. He said he painted the way we laughed." Art shaped by connection, not instinct. Beauty born from belonging.

★★★★★

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All In (Full Tilt #2) by Emma Scott - A Review

All In feels like the softer, healing breath you need after the first book. Casey is a total mess in the beginning, and honestly, it makes her feel real. She’s trying to figure out who she is now, what her life even looks like, and how to move forward without pretending she’s fine. The story gives her the space to stumble, get back up, and slowly find pieces of herself she thought were gone forever.

The romance in this one is sweet in that steady, patient way that never tries to replace what she lost. It feels safe, honest, and earned. Nothing huge or dramatic. Just two people finding comfort and possibility together.

Emma Scott knows exactly how to write emotional moments without making them feel heavy just to be heavy. By the end, the book leaves you with that warm, hopeful feeling that things can hurt and still get better. It’s exactly the kind of vibe that made me add her to my auto approved list.

★★★★

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Pop’s Casbah Peanut Butter Pie

Pop’s closed long ago, but the peanut butter pie recipe never faded. It passed from friend to friend until it became one of our favorite desserts. Every time we make it, it feels like a small piece of Pop’s Casbah lives on — simple, sweet, and still bringing people together.

1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup confectioners sugar

1 (9 ounce) container Cool Whip

1/3 cup milk

1 (9 inch) crust (pastry, graham or cookie)

1/3 cup peanut butter

Cream together first 4 ingredients. Add vanilla and fold in Cool Whip. Pour into crust and freeze. Serves 6-8.

Peanut Butter Crumbles (2‑Ingredient)

2 tablespoons peanut butter

2–3 tablespoons powdered sugar

Full Tilt (Full Tilt, #1) by Emma Scott - A Review

Full Tilt is a beautifully paced, emotionally grounded romance that centers on two people who meet at the exact moment they need someone to shake their world awake. Emma Scott writes with a softness that makes the story feel deeply personal, focusing on connection, healing, and what it means to live with honesty and intention.

Kacey Dawson is a musician caught in a storm of fame, burnout, and self‑destruction. Jonah Fletcher is her opposite in almost every way—steady, thoughtful, quietly brilliant. What makes this book shine is the way their personalities balance each other. Their relationship grows slowly, with a genuine tenderness that gives every scene weight. There’s no rush, no forced drama; just two people finding a safe place in one another.

The emotional pull of the story never feels manipulative. Instead, it’s built through small, intimate moments that show how love can help someone rediscover themselves. The romance is heartfelt, the character growth is meaningful, and the writing captures both the fragility and the fierce beauty of choosing to truly live.

Full Tilt is a book that stays with you—not because of shock or twists, but because it reminds you how powerful a single connection can be.

★★★★

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Visit your local library 🕮

Crime Scene: Kitchen Floor

Fresh eggs on the counter.

Kitten notices. One push.

Eggs everywhere. Bowl down.

Dinner is served. 

 

None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell - A Review

None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell delivers another tense, twist-filled psychological thriller with None of This Is True. The story revolves around Josie and Alix, two women who cross paths on their 45th birthdays, leading to a web of secrets, lies, and unexpected revelations. Told through podcast transcripts and cinematic-style storytelling, the novel keeps you guessing about what’s real and what’s fabricated.

The suspense is excellent, with several jaw-dropping twists and dark themes that linger long after reading. The structure is creative, and Jewell’s writing draws you into the psychological tension. That said, the characters can be difficult to connect with, and some of their decisions are frustrating, which may make it harder for some readers to fully engage.

Overall, it’s a gripping, unsettling read for fans of intense psychological fiction, but not a light or easy story.

Rating: ★★★☆☆

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My Friends by Hisham Matar - A Review

My Friends is one of those quiet books that suddenly punches you in the feelings. It starts soft, but underneath it’s full of grief, love, awkward growing pains, and all the emotional chaos of being human. Hisham Matar just gets people — no drama, no preaching, just truth.

What hit me most was how honestly it talks about growing up and carrying those early bruises around. It nails that teenage mix of thinking you’re unstoppable while also falling apart. Extremely relatable.

I ended up highlighting so many lines — little observations about grief, loneliness, and love that feel almost too real, like someone finally put words to stuff you’ve felt forever. Another Post here. 

The book really shines when it talks about friendship and love, especially how blurry those lines can be when you’re young. And it doesn’t shy away from the harder things either, like how being loved and accepting love are two totally different skills.

The art moments were some of my favorites — the whole idea that art, love, and grief are all tangled together. It’s soft and a little sad in the best way.

And even though it deals with heavy things, it’s not depressing. There’s laughter woven through it, these small reminders that joy sticks around even when life gets rough.

Overall, My Friends is tender, thoughtful, and incredibly human. It’s the kind of book that sneaks 

up on you and stays. Five stars.

★★★★★

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1 Peter: Sustained by a Living Hope, A 5‑Week Study, Mariel Davenport - A Review

Mariel Davenport’s five‑week study 1 Peter: Sustained by a Living Hope is a warm, encouraging, and easy‑to‑follow guide through the book of 1 Peter. Using the TEND method—Take time to pray, Examine the Scriptures, Notice the lessons, and Do what it says—Davenport helps readers grow in a steady, simple rhythm that makes Scripture feel approachable for anyone.

The study offers gentle guidance for believers who feel scattered, misunderstood, or weighed down by life. Davenport continually brings readers back to Peter’s message of living with a steady hope rooted in our identity in Christ, not our circumstances. Each week connects beautifully to this theme, making the study feel clear and uplifting.

One of the best parts of this book is how well it teaches you to study the Bible for yourself. Davenport’s prompts, journaling pages, tools, videos, and leader helps make this an excellent resource for personal study or group use. Whether you’re new to Bible study or experienced, the structure feels supportive and meaningful.

Her focus on remembering who God has made you to be is especially encouraging. The study invites readers to rest in their inheritance, trust God’s promises, and live with confidence. The practical application steps help turn learning into real spiritual growth.

This study fits well in women’s ministry settings as part of the God Hears Her collection, but its message is helpful for any believer seeking hope and stability. It’s a wonderful resource for small groups or personal quiet time—and I will most certainly be purchasing hard copies for myself.

★★★★★

I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley and Our Daily Bread Publishing in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

How Long Has This Been Going On?

I finally caught her drinking out of my glass of water.

No guilt. No apology. Just eye contact.

I feel like this has been happening for a while.

One True Loves: A Novel Taylor Jenkins Reid

One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a thoughtful exploration of love, loss, and personal growth. Emma marries her high school sweetheart, Jesse, who is later presumed dead after a helicopter crash. Years afterward, she rebuilds her life and falls in love again, only to learn that Jesse has survived. The story follows her struggle to reconcile her past with her present and determine the future she truly wants.

The writing is straightforward and accessible, and the emotional tension feels authentic. While some plot points are predictable, the central question—whether a person can have more than one true love—remains compelling.

A sincere and engaging romance.

★★★★

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Reading - Quote

 

“Reading taught me how to sit still and

pay attention.”

MACARONI PIE

Originally from Jeff Smith, Yankee Doodle casserole is a simple, comforting dish with baked macaroni and rich cheese flavor that brings classic homestyle cooking to the table with ease.

2 cups uncooked macaroni
¼ pound butter, melted
Salt
¼ pound grated white or yellow cheese

Boil the pasta in salted water until barely tender. Drain. Mix with the cheese and butter and place in a baking dish. Bake at 350° until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes

A Quiet Visitor in the Rose of Sharons

This little possum stopped by for a peaceful visit among the Rose of Sharons, tucked in the perfect hiding spot. There’s something sweet about seeing wildlife pause in a safe, calm place — just resting, watching, and becoming part of the garden for a moment. Nature always finds its way to the softest corners. 

 

INDIAN FRY BREAD

INDIAN FRY BREAD

3 cups sifted flour
4 tablespoons baking powder
water
fat for deep frying
¼ tablespoon salt

Mix all ingredients with sufficient water to make a stiff dough. Place it in a covered bow! And let sit 30 minutes to 1 hour. Pinch off small balls of dough and work out into about a 5-inch circle. Fry in deep hot fat until golden brown. Serve with butter, syrup, jelly, vegetables, or meat. Eat while hot. John Smitley, restaurant manager, Alabama-Coushatta Indian Reservation, Livingston

HOMEMADE HOT FUDGE SAUCE

Rich, glossy homemade hot fudge sauce, freshly made and ready to drizzle over your favorite desserts. This is the best fudge sauce you ever tasted and so simple to make. 

1 can evaporated milk
3 c. 10x powdered sugar
5 sq. unsweetened chocolate
1 ¼ tsp. vanilla
½ c. butter

Melt chocolate and butter. Add milk and sugar alternately until mixture boils and thickens. Take off heat and add vanilla.

Note: This can be done in a microwave. Heat only a minute so the mixture does not curdle.

Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood - A Review

Love on the Brain delivers exactly what Ali Hazelwood fans expect — with both its strengths and its familiar frustrations.

Bee is a heroine who can be hard to connect with at first. Her tendency to interrupt and her rambling inner monologue tested my patience, and I can see why some readers were put off early on. That said, she’s direct, ambitious, and more emotionally mature than some of Hazelwood’s previous leads.

Levi is the standout. He’s patient, attentive, genuinely funny, and communicates with care — a refreshing and very likable romantic lead. The chemistry between Bee and Levi is sweet, amusing, and develops in a way that feels natural and emotionally grounded.

The story leans heavily on miscommunication and follows a predictable path, and the ending feels a bit over the top. Still, the conflict is well prepared, and the emotional payoff makes the journey enjoyable.

Overall, this was a solid, comforting read. Not surprising — but warm, amusing, and touching enough to recommend.

★★★☆☆

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When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin - A Review

When Crickets Cry is a warm, emotional story set in a small Southern town. The book brings together Reese, a man carrying a heavy past, and Annie, a spirited young girl with a serious heart condition. Their first meeting feels simple, but it quickly becomes clear that they share a deeper connection, especially because Reese knows more about her situation than he lets on.

The book as a blend of heartfelt storytelling, faith, and small‑town charm. The themes of love, loss, and hope stand out, and readers often mention how the characters feel real and easy to root for. Annie’s bravery and Reese’s quiet struggle give the story both warmth and emotional depth.

The novel focuses on healing — emotionally, spiritually, and in ways that take time. The writing has an easy, sincere feel to it, and the Southern setting adds a gentle, comforting backdrop to the more serious themes. Several guides also note that the story leans into the idea that meaningful moments and unexpected connections can help people find their way forward.

Overall, When Crickets Cry is touching without being overwhelming, emotional without dragging you down, and full of heart from beginning to end. It leaves you thinking about second chances and the quiet ways people help each other heal.

★★★★

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Zoltar - make your wish

Walking along the California pier a few years ago, I stumbled across a familiar face from the 80s the Zoltar machine. If you grew up on movies like BIG, you know exactly why I stopped in my tracks. There’s something surreal about seeing that glowing booth in real life, like it’s just waiting for someone to walk up, drop in a coin, and whisper a wish to be big.

Of course, no body-swapping magic happened (thankfully), but the nostalgia hit hard. The cabinet lights, the fortune card slot, the lifelike figure inside all straight out of those iconic scenes with Tom Hanks. It felt like the kind of moment where movie memories and real life overlap for just a second.

If you ever spot one of these machines on the pier, take a moment, make a wish (maybe a sensible one), and enjoy the flashback to one of the most charming films of the 80s.

Make your wish but be careful — Zoltar might be listening.

 

Goat TV Is Better Than Regular TV

I checked the goat cam and, as expected, the goats were just… being goats. Standing around, staring, snacking. It’s weirdly calming. Honestly, Goat TV might be my new favorite channel.

 

Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering by Joanna Gaines (with Marah Stets)

Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering by Joanna Gaines (with Marah Stets) is exactly the kind of cookbook you actually use, not just admire on the counter.

This book is full of classic, comforting, down-to-earth recipes that feel like real home cooking. Yes, there’s a little kale and even some Velveeta, but it’s used sparingly and makes total sense where it shows up (the mac and cheese is excellent, by the way).

The recipes are easy to follow, use simple ingredients, and just work. Everything I’ve made has been flavorful and family-friendly, from burgers and stews to baked goods and breakfasts. The baked items in particular are standouts, and several have already become repeat favorites in my house. I also really appreciated the personal stories sprinkled throughout makes the book feel warm and personal, not overly polished or “brand-y.”

The photos are beautiful without being intimidating, and the layout is clean and inviting (even the Kindle version looks great). Compared to Volume 2, this first book feels more personal and geared toward everyday meals and casual entertaining, which I preferred.

Overall, this is a practical, cozy, reliable cookbook that lives up to the hype. If you love comfort food, simple but delicious recipes, and Joanna Gaines’ style, this one’s absolutely worth owning.

★★★★★

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My Crazy Pet Frog by Scott - A Review

My Crazy Pet Frog by Scott Gordon is a humorous and imaginative children’s book that celebrates creativity and the fun of having an unusual pet. The story follows a young narrator whose frog behaves in wild and unpredictable ways, turning ordinary moments into silly adventures. This playful approach keeps young readers engaged and encourages them to imagine the impossible.

Gordon’s writing is simple and accessible, making the book ideal for early readers or for reading aloud. The fast-paced, humorous scenes appeal to children who enjoy goofy, exaggerated storytelling. The visuals that typically accompany the book further bring the frog’s big personality to life, helping young readers connect with the story.

Another strength of the book is how it taps into a child’s natural sense of wonder. The frog’s over-the-top antics give kids plenty to laugh about while also sparking their own imaginative thinking. The short length and straightforward structure make it a great choice for new readers or quick classroom read-aloud sessions.

Overall, My Crazy Pet Frog is a cheerful and entertaining story that blends humor with creativity. Scott Gordon delivers a fun reading experience that is easy to enjoy and perfect for young children who love silly animal stories.

The Way of Befriending by Parfait Bassalé - A Review

The Way of Befriending by Parfait Bassalé

The Way of Befriending: Transforming Relationships and Organizations for Belonging is one of those books that feels both personal and practical. Parfait Bassalé draws on his experience as a belonging strategist, storyteller, and musician to talk about what it really takes to create spaces where people feel seen and valued. His main ideas of courage, curiosity, and compassion are simple, human, and feel very doable in everyday life.

What really stands out is the mix of real stories and helpful tools. Instead of just telling you what belonging is, he shows it through moments from his own life, examples from organizations, and the original music he created for the book. It makes the whole experience deeper and more meaningful.

Bassalé also points out that belonging is not just about being kind to each other. The way a workplace is built, including its policies, habits, and unspoken expectations, plays a huge part in who feels included. His reflection questions help readers take an honest look at these systems. It is a helpful reminder that belonging does not just happen by accident. Someone has to build it with intention.

One of my favorite ideas in the book is the invitation to “be a bridge.” He encourages readers to approach unfamiliar people and perspectives with openness, even when it feels uncomfortable. His view of compassion as walking alongside someone and honoring their story gives the idea real substance and makes it feel grounded.

Even with these big themes, the writing stays warm and easy to follow. It feels more like a friendly conversation than a textbook. His stories open the door to bigger thoughts about identity, community, and what becomes possible when we choose connection over separation. Leaders, teachers, organizers, and anyone wanting to create healthier and more inclusive spaces will find plenty of useful guidance here.

The original songs included with the book are a great touch. They add emotion and help the messages stick in a way that written words alone sometimes cannot.

Overall, The Way of Befriending is a thoughtful and heartfelt guide for anyone who wants to strengthen relationships or help groups operate with more empathy and respect. Whether you want to shift a workplace culture or simply be more present in your everyday interactions, this book offers practical tools and a gentle push toward more courageous, heart centered connection.

★★★★

I received an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

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Sir, That Is Not Jewelry

Got the feeder collar stuck on his neck.

Acting like it’s a fashion choice.

Zero shame. Full confidence.

 

Three Days in June by Anne Tyler - A Review

Three Days in June by Anne Tyler isn’t exactly a page-turner. The story takes place over a single weekend during Gail’s daughter Debbie’s wedding, but it’s more about reflection than action. The weekend kicks off with Gail being passed over for a promotion, her ex-husband Max showing up unexpectedly (and bringing a cat he’s fostering), and Debbie revealing that her fiancé has been unfaithful. From there, the book moves between Gail thinking about her marriage, her structured life, and whether she’s ready to take some risks.

There are funny, charming moments with quirky, down-to-earth characters, but I found it a bit lightweight. I was expecting more drama, that classic “dysfunctional family wedding” energy, but it just wasn’t there. Gail was hard to connect with—her decisions often didn’t make sense to me—and most of the side characters weren’t fully developed. Max felt richer and more interesting, which only highlighted the others’ lack of depth.

What I did enjoy was seeing a story centered on an older woman. That’s refreshing in fiction, and it made the book worth reading. Tyler’s prose is always nice—thoughtful and observant—but at times it felt slow and flat. I found myself skimming a bit due to the lack of substance.

The ending is sweet and gives Gail redeems herself but there are a lot of loose ends. What happens with Debbie’s marriage? What really comes of Gail and Max? I wanted more depth and a little more payoff for the characters.

Overall, Three Days in June is a quick, pleasant read, but it left me feeling lukewarm. It’s not bad, but it didn’t have the emotional punch or drama I was expecting from Anne Tyler. A beautiful book cover though!

★★★☆☆

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