From two inspiring books to a couple of my favorite local farms, there’s lots to love in this edition of Favorite Things September 2021!
Cue the music: These are a few of my favorite things…
BOOK 1: THE MOUNTAINS SING
The Vietnam War was something I had never read about {or understood, really}, so I was intrigued by the premise of this one, which highlights the familial trauma over several generations before and after the war. I really enjoyed reading from the perspective of a Vietnamese family.
The story was told as if it was a memoir, though it is technically historical fiction based on real life events. I couldn’t put it down and breezed through it pretty quickly. The hardships of the families struck by this war are something as a society we should never forget. It really made me count my blessings for the life I’ve been granted. This would be an excellent book club pick!
BOOK 2: FINDING LANCELOT
In case you haven’t noticed, most of the books I choose tend to be about heavier topics. I’m an optimist by nature, but I love reading hard stuff because it helps me process the things that “go wrong” in this world.
After a tough month mentally for a variety of reasons, this book was sent my way. Honestly, it couldn’t have come at a better time! I was ready for a mental escape book, and this one certainly did the trick.
The story highlights a mid-twenties gal trying to navigate the world. She’s feeling dissatisfied with her life, when she meets a past life therapist. I won’t spoil the story, but essentially, she gets to meet her love again during this life, while working at a Renaissance Festival.
What I loved about this book was how it really transported my brain. I found myself dreaming about what my past life may have been, and cheering on the main characters with the hope it would all work out. Definitely recommend to those needing to escape too!
SNACK: CARAMEL APPLE DIP
I am watching what I eat these days, so am always on the hunt for things that will fill me up, and satisfy my sweet tooth. I’m a sucker for caramel dip, but since it’s packed with sugar and calories, I know I need to use it sparingly. Turns out just a small scoop mixed in with vanilla Greek yogurt tastes like a delicious treat to my taste buds. I typically dip a cut-up apple into this concoction or cut up apple pieces and eat it all together. It’s seriously delicious!
COZY UP ESSENTIAL: THE PERFECT COUCH BLANKET
It’s getting to be cozy season around here, and we love our Friday night movie nights around here. As a family of five, we love each having our own blanket to cuddle with, or ones that are large enough to share. I’ve found the decorative type ones don’t hold up well after several washes, so I was ecstatic when my blanket enthusiast friend introduced us to the softest, most affordable, just the right-amount-of-weight kind.
We now own two of these Monte & Jardin ultra plush throws, and they truly are the best! Keep an eye on Amazon — it’s a bit overpriced at the moment, but it will go down. And if you’re lucky, you may be able to score one at Costco for around $10 during the holidays. They are so cozy!
SMALL BUSINESS: LOCAL FARMS
This month I am highlighting two of my favorite local farms because I believe in supporting our local farmers! Tis the season for all things fall decor. Please do not give your money to the big box stores, and instead, go out of your way to support someone locally!
SCHELL FAMILY FARM IN PINCKNEY
We love visiting Schell Family Farm in Pinckney. Not only do they have a fun corn maze, apple picking and more, but they also have a pumpkin patch and beautiful gourds. Their prices are super reasonable too, and there is no price for admission.
CHAMBERS FAMILY FARM IN PINCKNEY
Just a few miles from Schell is the Chambers Family Farm. We have been visiting this spot since my kids were little. We love checking out the animals, jumping on the hay bales, and going through the corn maze. It’s a beautiful spot and is FREE to visit.
Before leaving though, we are always sure to grab some fall things — their shop is so cute with mums, pumpkins, gourds and more.
When decorating your porch this fall, consider supporting the little guys!
Amazon affiliate links are included for some of the products mentioned. When you purchase from these links, my website gets a small commission.
What fun discoveries have you made this month?
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