A Day In The Life-June

Welcome to our Day In The Life link up. If you've posted about a typical day where you live add your link at the end of my post, then hop over and say hi to your neighbors there. Day In The Life posts only please and thank you. 

I love reading these posts and think they harken back to the early days of blogging, and even social media, where you got to know people through their writing and felt connected through the ordinary moments of life. We're bringing it back today. 

I chose June 1st because just because. Mostly because it occurred to me the night before and I have to set some alarms to remember to snap pictures throughout the day. Here we go-

Monday, June 1, 2026

Rise and shine, today at 6:36 am. I didn't set an alarm and am often up far earlier, but on this day it was 6:36. 

Start the coffee (I always set it up the night before) and feed the little brown dog. Mondays are trash day here so the pup likes to accompany hubs outside when he hauls the bins to the curb. We don't put them out the night before because bears love a good trash can meal. 

I'm glad when hubs is home to do the lugging, because the bins are heavy and our driveway has a slight incline so it's not my favorite task. 

Once this is done I pour coffee and settle in to my comfy space on the upstairs deck. I read my Bible, write in my prayer journal, browse emails, check to see if there are Tiny Beans updates, and play my word games to keep my brain working. Tiny Beans is a photo sharing site my girls both use to share pics of the grands. It's by invitation only and it's nice because aunts, uncles, and great-grandparents can all see the pics there. 

The first cup of coffee is my favorite. 

Hubs sits with me and does similar activities, although he doesn't play the word games like I do. 

Today we notice something yellow on the curb beside the lower garage so we walk down to investigate. From the deck it looks like, for lack of a better descriptor, dog vomit. 

Whadda ya know? I snapped a pic and my trusty plant identifier told me it is a fungus appropriately named-dog vomit slime mold. It's also sometimes known as scrambled egg slime and it's common after a lot of rain. We had a gully washer here all day every day over the Memorial Day weekend so this makes sense. Fortunately it disappears as the ground dries out. 

You didn't know this was going to be educational, did you?

Anyway, I couldn't linger with my morning coffee as long as I normally do because I had a facial booked at 9 AM,  and it's almost an hour drive so I needed to get moving. 

There are places I could go much closer to home, but I love everything about the experience in this particular spa and I love the girl I see there. Now that my mom lives in that general direction I'll combine the trek with a visit to her, or I'll stop at Costco or Trader Joe's which are also very nearby the salon. 

I go with a clean face, but I did shower, outside of course because that's the law here once winter ends, plus the view cannot be beat. Then I put on my comfy yoga pants, ate a small carton of yogurt, and was on my way. 

The facial lasted an hour (pure bliss) and then I headed one town over to see my mama. 

When I arrived she was in a chair yoga class and when that wrapped up she was going for some p.t. I tagged along and it was fun to see what all she does with the therapist. She cracked a joke too and we all laughed. After therapy we went outside and sat for a bit, then back to her room. 

Pay no attention to my shiny face. I had a facial and am still sans makeup. 

I walked with her to lunch then got on the road to head home. I grabbed a box of chick-fil-a nuggets and a diet lemonade for the ride back to the lake because I was starving. 

Once home I spent some time on the deck working on my blog. 

It rained a little and I love sitting outside listening to it fall. I move the deck pots out from under cover for some free watering. 

Daughter2 facetimed and I spent 57 minutes talking to her which is always a treat. Her kids were resting so we actually got to talk.  

Continue to ignore my still shiny face and my slightly oily hair. Shower number 2 is coming up because hubs and I had signed up for a wine dinner that evening. 

This was not our normal monthly wine dinner, but one the owner of the wine shop had put together. The wines were French and the winemaker was there to do the presentation. 

They had the most amazing charcuterie board as a starter, and then short ribs followed by creme brulee for dessert. The food was yummy. 

Course I neglected to snap a pic of hubs and I, but in true to me fashion I did get one of the sky when we were walking back to our car. The sunset was a beauty. 

I tried to snap a picture as we drove across the bridge coming home,  but didn't fare too well. 

We were home about 9:30 and headed to bed soon after. 

Now. Was this day typical? Sort of. There's truly no such thing as a typical day here. Every day is a little different than the one before, but on this day there was a lot of driving which feels accurate, at least for the past couple of months. There wasn't any cooking which is not typical, but there was porch time, a catch up with a daughter, blog time, a fun meal out, and that facial, the benefit of which cannot be overstated. 

This was fun. I look forward to reading about your day and will plan another link up sometime late fall. Thanks for joining the party here today! 

Hodgepodge Fever

Welcome to this week's edition of The Wednesday Hodgepodge. If you've answered today's questions add your link at the end of my post, then leave a comment for the blogger before you. Here we go- 

1. June 17th, 1994 was the day of the infamous O.J. Simpson car chase. What were you doing in 1994? I'm guessing somebody is going to tell me they weren't born yet but that's part of the fun of the Hodgepodge. Lots of generations are represented here. 

What a crazy day that was. Watching the super slow police chase of a former NFL standout. So sad for those families and all that was revealed after. 

In June of 1994 we were settling in to our new home in Maryland, having closed on our house there at the very end of May. Daughter1 had celebrated her 6th birthday a little bit early, with her NJ friends just before we moved and Daughter2 was not quite four. 

And now let's pause and give these neon track suits on tiny people their due. When my girls see photos of themselves in this sort of 'fashion' they always ask, 'But why were we wearing track suits?' 

Good question. I guess they were all the rage, they came in pretty colors, and they were comfy. Also swishy. Not a single natural fiber to be found but they do look awfully cute. 

2. What's your favorite summer salad that isn't the traditional tossed green lettuce kind of salad? Do you like fresh fruit in a salad (other than in a fruit salad of course)?

I love all salads, but one of my favorites is a Caprese-red ripe tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and fresh basil  topped with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a splash of balsamic. 

I like fruit in salads and often add Craisins to a regular tossed salad. There's a salad I make that we all love that calls for apple and pear. I like a watermelon and feta salad, a spinach and strawberry salad, and a peach and burrata salad too. 

3. Is chivalry dead? Should it be? 

Is chivalry dead? Not quite. 

Should it be? I vote no. I mean technically it might be dead because I think the original definition of the word applied to a knight's code of conduct, and there aren't many knights around in 2026. The word has taken on a more commonly used meaning in modern times, and 'typically refers to an honorable and polite way of behaving, especially by men toward women' (Websters). 

If that's the definition we're using then it's not dead in my house and I'm grateful. My hubs is considerate, opens doors, brings the car to the curb when it's raining, holds the umbrella, carries heavy luggage and bags, kills creepy crawlies, investigates strange noises, and brews me afternoon tea. I appreciate these gestures. 

Am I helpless? Not at all. But I love feeling cared for and cherished and I'm glad there are areas of life I can trust he'll take care of and manage. I don't think men and women were designed to serve the same roles within marriage and I appreciate our different giftings.  

4. Would you rather spend a week of your summer vacation in Hawaii or Alaska? Have you ever been to either? Are they two places you really would like to see? How do you feel about 'Hawaiian pizza' aka pineapple on a pizza? Have you ever eaten Baked Alaska? 

Hawaii I think.

Maybe it's in my DNA? 

I've never been to Alaska, and it's become a really  popular tourist destination it seems. I'm sure I'd enjoy a trip there, but it's never been high on my bucket list. I'd rather have sun, sand, and the sea or ancient cities and beautiful architecture. 

As far as the 'state foods' go...I won't order a Hawaiian pizza, but will eat it if that's what the group wants. I don't hate it, but there are far better pizzas out there than one topped with pineapple. 

 I've never had Baked Alaska but would love to try it. 

5. World Cup play is happening now...are you interested? Watching any matches? Did you or your children play soccer/futbol? There are eleven US cities hosting matches-

-Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York with the stadium in NJ, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle

along with  three cities in Mexico (Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey)

and two in Canada (Toronto and Vancouver)-

You get free tickets to one of these matches. Which city do you choose? Tell us why. 

We're watching. I love the patriotism on display by all the countries represented. I love that everyone is singing their nation's National Anthem with hands on their hearts. I love the enthusiasm for American culture that's had a light shone upon it thanks to the visiting spectators from around the world. I like the matches best where someone scores -ha! 

I never played soccer and my girls played only when they were very young. There were other sports/dance they'd rather be doing. 

If I have to pick a city from that list I guess maybe Toronto, mostly because I've never been. Also, I have a friend who lives not far from there, and I've heard it's a foodie city which appeals to me. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

A quick reminder I'm hosting A Day In The Life linkup tomorrow-June 18th for anyone interested in playing along. 

If you need details you'll find them in my random thought here (Nom de Hodgepodge). Feel free to screen shot the graphic. See you there! 

There Is A Young Cowboy...

A letter today for the birthday boy, which is a blog tradition on From This Side of the Pond.

Dear Sweet Baby J-

Today you are four. 

You've been a joy and delight since the day you were born and we only love you more with every passing year. There's so much to love about you but since you're turning four Nana is going to tell four things-

~You're curious. Which is why we know to keep an eye on you lol. You want to know how things work and you like to take things apart to figure that out (the lock on the back fence gate and your bedroom lamp are two that come to mind). 

You want to know how they might go back together too, and you're quick and intuitive about such things. When momma asked recently what you want to be when you grow up you said a construction worker. You like to build and use your hands and you're good at that like your Daddy. 

~You're sweet. Hence your blog name. You love your little sister and she adores and looks up to you. Sometimes she tries your patience, but mostly you are a wonderful, loving, protective big brother and that makes Nana's heart so happy. 

You love your momma, but you're a Daddy's boy too, and when asked what your favorite part of vacation was this year you said, ' hanging out with Daddy'. 

~You have a big imagination. Huge. You love to pretend and you love others to join in the make believe game too. Your little boy big brain is always working and we love watching you grow and discover new things every day. 

~You're adorable. How old will you be when I'm not allowed to use that word to describe you? I don't know, but I think at four it's still okay. You have a twinkle in your eye and when you're happy and excited about something you squeeze your hands together and jump for joy. Your bright blue eyes, your infectious smile, your joie de vivre draws everyone in. 

You love your cousins, 'your boys' as you call the two oldest and your extra special co-conspirator Little Miss who is your same age, who bosses you only a little even though you're three months older, and who you have the best and most serious conversations with whenever you're together. We all would love to be  flies on the wall when you two put your heads together. I pray you're always the best of friends. 

Your cousins live near Nana and Pawpaw now, and we're excited for a cousin party at the lake to celebrate your special day.  There will be swimming, fishing, boating, s'mores and your favorite thing-balloons.

There will be birthday hugs and laughter and a whole lotta love because there always is when you're around. Happy birthday sweet baby J. Being your Nana is one of my favorite things and always know I love you deep and wide. 

xoxo

Nana

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Linking with Joanne today for Talking About It Tuesdays

Note: I'm hosting a Day In The Life link up here on Thursday (6/18)...feel free to join the party

Hey Monday

A quick reminder I'm hosting a Day In The Life linkup for anyone interested on Thursday, June 18

Good Monday morning friends. How was your weekend? Ours was a scorcher filled with fun, family, and livin' the lake life. I'm linking as usual with Holly and Sarah for their weekend recap hop, and here's how ours looked-

My younger sister was in town with her hubs and son for the weekend. Well, nearby anyway. They're here mainly to visit my mama, so staying with my older sister who lives about an hour from me. They had plans to come to the lake for dinner so I spent Friday morning baking dessert, making an appetizer for Saturday's activities which are unrelated to Friday night's activities, and getting the house ready. 

Speaking of dessert...

pre-glaze

This recipe is a keeper. Everyone loved them. They're a strawberry lemon blondie made with fresh strawberries and freshly squeezed lemon juice. 

The strawberry glaze is made with pureed strawberries and it absolutely takes an already yummy bar to the next level. The glaze is sweet but the bars are not overly so and they're scrumptious. 

Family arrived here about 4 and my sister and her hubs and son immediately jumped in the lake. It was hot and humid with temps in the 90's so the water was welcome. I sat up on the porch with my other sister and we caught up. It was a fun and relaxed afternoon and evening. 

Hubs grilled wings, hot wings and teriyaki both, and they were delicious. I'd made a big pan of baked ziti on Thursday, and I love this recipe. I tweak it a little, but mostly prepare as written. I wanted something I could make ahead so I could hang with my family. The ziti just needed to be baked and then I added a salad and garlic bread to the meal. 

After dinner we went for a boat ride. 

It was still steamy but there was a nice breeze as we were cruising. 

The sky was so pretty, and as they pulled out of the driveway to head home the sunset did its thing. 

Saturday morning hubs and I sipped coffee on the deck and watched a lot of videos of Europeans visiting America for the first time and absolutely loving it. The messaging they get from their home country's news isn't matching up with the beauty, the wonder, and the kindness found in America, particularly the south and the heartland which is where many of these travelers are visiting. What they're seeing with their own eyes and experiencing in their interactions with people is giving them a new narrative and I am here for it.

There's a portion of Americans who could learn something from them, but I guess I won't get on my soapbox today. 

We were invited on Saturday to celebrate a friend's retirement with a ginormous lake float party. They were serving BBQ, but everyone was asked to bring something based on the first initial of their last name which meant an appetizer for us. I made pickled shrimp which is always a hit.  

Friends picked us up on our dock and we motored over to join 100 of our closest friends for an  afternoon of floating, great music and delicious food.

Fanciest port-a-potty ever-

The band was fantastic. Seriously so good playing a mix of 70's-80's and 90's music. 

It was a scorcher too so hanging out in the water was perfect. 

Sunday we went to church, then came home and had lunch and a rainstorm. 

I spent the afternoon catching up on my blog and resting up for Sunday evening when our Vacation Bible School would kick off. I'm doing preschool and kindergarten crafts so it should be fun chaos. VBS always is. 

If you recapped your weekend hop over and add your link to the party. 

Hodgepodge Questions-Volume 658

Here are the questions to this week's Hodgepodge. Answer on your own blog, then hop back here on Wednesday (June 17th) to share your answers. See you there! 

1. June 17th, 1994 was the day of the infamous O.J. Simpson car chase. What were you doing in 1994? I'm guessing somebody is going to tell me they weren't born yet but that's part of the fun of the Hodgepodge. Lots of generations are represented here. 

2. What's your favorite summer salad that isn't the traditional tossed green lettuce kind of salad? Do you like fresh fruit in a salad (other than in a fruit salad of course)?

3. Is chivalry dead? Should it be? 

4. Would you rather spend a week of your summer vacation in Hawaii or Alaska? Have you ever been to either? Are they two places you really would like to see? How do you feel about 'Hawaiian pizza' aka pineapple on a pizza? Have you ever eaten Baked Alaska? 

5. World Cup play is happening now...are you interested? Watching any matches? Did you or your children play soccer/futbol? There are eleven US cities hosting matches-

-Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York with the stadium in NJ, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle

along with  three cities in Mexico (Guadalajara, Mexico City and Monterrey)

and two in Canada (Toronto and Vancouver)-

You get free tickets to one of these matches. Which city do you choose? Tell us why. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Everyday Images

I enjoy the Everyday Images link up hosted by Kym (Another Cup Of Coffee) and thought I might try to make some of my recent random photos fit the prompts. Bloggers tend to snap a lot of pictures and a prompt like this one is a nice place to set them down. 

Kym posts new prompts every two weeks and the most current are-

flag, simple and/or complicated, at home, Wednesday weather,

 doorway, movement, and branched

Well flag is an easy one because I'm adding patriotic decor in spots around the house and several feature flag motifs-

This is on my coffee table, a little vignette that's fun and festive. I chose poppies because they make me think of soldiers and sacrifice. The pop of red in a little blue floral vase is so pretty. These are artificial poppies, but look so real. I ordered them from a company called Luv Sola Flowers which I think is out of California. The stems have some bend to them which made arranging easy. 

Love my 'smells like freedom candle' too. What does freedom smell like? For some reason I immediately think of freshly mown green grass, which is not the scent of this candle, but that's the first thing I thought of. The label on the bottom says gun powder, but I had to check so I don't think it's obvious. 

Since we're talking flags I also bought hand soap for my powder room and some disposable towels, both with red, white, and blue flag designs on them. 

Simple and/or complicated-

I spent Thursday afternoon cooking. I made dinner to take to a friend as part of a meal train (pot roast, mashed potatoes, green beans, and glazed carrots), then made a big pan of ziti to have ready to go for Friday night's dinner when my two sisters, my brother-in-law, and my nephew will be at the lake. 

And I made hubs and I a big cobb salad for our Thursday dinner. I'll make a dessert tomorrow but it felt simpler to devote an afternoon to the bigger cooking as opposed to spreading it out over a couple of days. 

Hubs is grilling wings Friday too but that's his department and he's got it covered. 

at home-

I'm writing this post at 8 PM on Thursday and this is the first I've sat down today. Maybe all week? 

Here's the sofa on our upper deck which is pretty much my favorite place to sit and it's currently on point with my patriotic theme. Happy birthday America! 

Wednesday weather-

Hmm. I take a picture almost every morning, but did not snap one on Wednesday. It was drizzling when we got up, we had thunder at one point, humidity, clouds and then a very pretty sunset. We had gone to dinner with some neighbors and I attempted to take a photo of the pastel skies from their driveway. 

Doorway-

I didn't have anything that fit this particular prompt so I scrolled back through my camera roll and found a photo I took back in March that I never posted. Yes, of course that counts. You make your own blog rules, right? 

I took this when I was visiting my daughter2 in Tennessee and we shopped in the prettiest little store. Even the doors were beautiful-

Movement -

Well the beaver family has returned. Not the original beaver family because ahem, they're goners, but maybe one of their offspring? 

He's movin' alright. Moving is good though because we do not want him stopping and staying a while. 

We started seeing one good sized beaver swimming from the back of the cove towards the channel, which means he swims under our dock bridge. You have to get up very early to see him (which we do) and he is busy. As a beaver. Ha! That saying has merit y'all. We watched him one morning swim across our cove and under a neighbors dock all while carrying a large branch with the leaves still on it. Crazy! But kind of interesting too. 

On Tuesday he had a friend with him. Oh boy. 

We don't want him/them setting up house on our property so we're doing what we can to deter them . I don't think I'll elaborate. 

Also, I wrote back in 2020 about the beaver who ate his way through our hillside landscaping and if you've never seen one you might think they're cute, but I'm here to tell you they are not actually cute. One reason we put in the waterfall was to save the hillside and the beavers have not come up the hill since so it's working. 

branched-

This one feels like a challenge. Technically they're under some branches-

These two deer were in my neighbor's front yard the other day. They were not bothered by me at all. 

Happy weekend everyone!