Good morning and welcome to the first college football weekend of the year.
Although it’s only week zero with a few games, and the official kickoff occurs on Labor Day weekend, football is back and we are excited.
It’s especially meaningful as family is visiting; David’s brother is here this weekend, both visiting and assisting with rental‑cabin projects.
Speaking of rental cabins, David visited Bearolina this week and had an unexpected encounter with a bear. Our security camera recorded the incident, and I have watched the footage repeatedly—over 400 times—and found it hilarious. I will attempt to include the video here; hopefully it works.
.
Hey bear.
(laughing)
On Saturday, David’s parents will join us for burgers, football, and plenty of conversation. I enjoy weekends like this and am already looking forward to bringing out the fall decorations.
First, here are a few things I’m currently enjoying.
The Ideal Petite‑Fit Tank
I appreciate when petite individuals share clothing that fits them well. My friend Lexi from Lexi’s Clean Kitchen recommended this affordable tank, and I purchased it in three colors. The shoulders are wide enough to accommodate a regular bra, and the length is ideal for tucking into jeans without excess fabric that causes bunching—a common issue for shorter frames. I intended to take a better photo, but this is the only image I had on my phone. For reference, I am 5’1” tall and wearing a size small.
Chicken Salad Using Canned Chicken
I have just finished the last jar of canned chicken I prepared with my electric pressure canner, and I am already planning when to make another batch because I value having it on hand for a protein‑rich lunch. Pairing it with my homemade relish and a homemade pickle feels like a small culinary victory at this stage of life.
My current chicken‑salad combination includes canned chicken, mayonnaise, celery, dried dill, sweet relish, a dash of Dijon mustard, finely diced red onion, salt, and pepper.
Also, note the visual representation of late August on my counter: a few remaining summer tomatoes and a pumpkin, both harvested from my garden club plot. This combination perfectly captures the transition from summer to fall.
Long‑Wear Lip Liner Stain
Initially, the lip liner stain may seem intense upon application, but after five to ten minutes you can peel it off to reveal a subtle lip color that resists transfer onto straws, cups, or clothing.
Although marketed as a lip liner stain, I apply it over my entire lips and then top it with chapstick or gloss for a polished look. For guidance on everyday makeup, I consulted ChatGPT, followed its suggestions, and was impressed with the results.
Dazzle Dry’s Take a Chance Shade
I have recently favored a rosy‑berry nail shade and appreciate that, thanks to Dazzle Dry, I am now consistently maintaining my nails for the first time. Many others have also embraced this non‑toxic polish, which remains chip‑free for weeks after drying in just minutes. I ordered the Take a Chance shade to wear on September 1st, marking the start of the autumn months.
If you are new to Dazzle Dry, I recommend beginning with the mini kit, which includes all necessary tools. A wide variety of colors are available.
The color depicted is available only in the mini kit.
Homeschool Morning Routine
I am pleased to note that, despite having a high schooler and a middle schooler, our morning time together remains productive. We are completing our reading of Queen Eleanor today—a narrative that feels like a medieval drama, both intriguing and enjoyable—and will subsequently begin 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, alternating with history lessons.
This gentle start to the day is a blessing, and I am delighted that both girls share this sentiment. Spending forty‑five minutes reading, discussing, laughing, and crafting sets a positive, connected tone for the day, even if we later groan about math.
A quick photo from my morning perspective, taken to savor and capture these ordinary moments I cherish.
Appreciation for Animals
To close, I want to mention my affection for animals. I enjoy having a dog and chickens, and if space allowed, I would add a goat or miniature donkey. They bring joy to everyday life. Finley, who is nearly five years old, is an excellent dog. Although she barks at the slightest movement outside the window, she is cheerful, affectionate on her own terms, and constantly follows me around.
Regarding the chickens, they seem more peaceful since Earl moved to his new home. The highlight is that the girls now visit them far more frequently—we hold, feed them, and even took Heyhey on her first golf‑cart ride. Animals truly enrich our lives.
That concludes my update for today, but I would love to hear about what brings you joy lately if you feel like sharing. Wishing you a wonderful weekend and a happy college‑football season.
