Monthly Delights: Inspiring Reads, Must-Watch Entertainment, and Home & Garden Goodies

A curated monthly list of delightful discoveries to enhance your life, featuring engaging reads, captivating watches, practical buys, and more.

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As another month begins, it’s striking how time seems to unfold differently under unique circumstances. There’s a curious paradox where days can feel stretched, yet weeks and months rush by in a blur. When life is filled with anticipated events—be it a family trip, a cherished gathering, or even a simple date night movie—time often accelerates. Perhaps, then, these slower moments are an invitation to practice mindfulness, compelling us to truly live in the present.

Despite the prevailing uncertainties, it has been wonderful to see more places gradually reopening. Our family recently celebrated my birthday at a local restaurant, and it was reassuring to observe everyone adhering to mask guidelines and social distancing protocols. There’s a collective hope that we can navigate these new realities and learn to thrive alongside them.

Beyond the global health situation, our nation continues to grapple with profound issues of racial injustice, highlighted by recent events concerning police treatment of Black communities. While this platform isn’t primarily for deep political discussion, I want to express my profound concern. I am committed to educating myself and voting responsibly to ensure I am part of the solution, not the problem.

In times like these, finding moments of joy and discovering “good things” becomes even more vital. Below is a curated selection of recent delights—from garden projects and thoughtful reads to engaging entertainment—that I hope will bring a little extra brightness to your days.

Home & Garden Highlights

DIY Garden Gate Arbor

For a year and a half, the four posts for our raised bed vegetable garden fence stood bare, patiently awaiting their transformation. Each time I passed them, I envisioned the elegant arbor they would one day become, imagining how much it would elevate the garden’s aesthetic. The vision truly spurred us on!

The catalyst for action finally arrived when I purchased a grape vine, known for its rapid growth, and asked Brian if we could finally complete the project. And just like that, with a bit of effort and determination, our beautiful garden arbor was brought to life!

Following our usual approach, I opted for a straightforward, classic design that could be easily constructed using basic lumber and common tools. This not only kept the project budget-friendly, costing less than $100, but also resulted in an exceptionally sturdy structure—a significant advantage over many pre-fabricated arbors available on the market. When you’re planning to grow something as vigorous and heavy as grapes, having a robust structure is paramount. Our posts are securely anchored with cement, ensuring this arbor will stand strong for years, impervious to heavy loads or strong winds.

For those inspired to create a similar inviting entrance to their garden, Brian has put together a concise how-to video demonstrating the construction process:

(Helpful Tip: You can subscribe to our YouTube channel and click the notification bell to be alerted every time we release a new video—we’re now committed to producing weekly content, so there’s always something new to learn or inspire!).

Mother’s Day Kayaking Adventure (with a furry friend!)

For the second consecutive year, Brian treated me to a kayaking excursion for Mother’s Day, solidifying it as a cherished new tradition. We’re fortunate to have a beautiful lake nearby with a tranquil section where motorboats are restricted, ensuring a peaceful and less crowded experience. It was an absolute delight to get back out on the water for the first time this season, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

This year, however, we decided to try something new, as you can see in the photo above. We brought along our puppy, Jynx, to see if she would enjoy joining us on the kayak. Our hopes were high for a serene paddling companion!

The verdict? Annnnd… nope, she wasn’t quite enthused. She mostly clung to my lap, which, while adorable, made paddling rather challenging. I found myself awkwardly leaning out to avoid bumping her with the paddle, and despite my efforts, she received a few gentle taps. While we adored having her along, it became clear that for future kayaking adventures, it’s best for Jynx to enjoy the comfort and safety of home. (Oh, if only we could explain to our pets the wonderful alternative awaiting them at home!).

Discovering the Perfect Sturdy Garden Tote

I had been eyeing this particular Bucket Boss tool tote ever since I stumbled upon it while curating a list of garden gift ideas. It’s often true that the best gifts are the ones you secretly wish for yourself, right? What truly captivated me about this tote was its wide, flat shape, a design feature I believed would solve the persistent issues I faced with my old garden tote, which you can see in the image above.

My previous tote, after just one season of use, developed an irreversible lean to one side, making it cumbersome and difficult to use. Furthermore, the deep main compartment made it a constant struggle to locate tools and supplies. I instinctively felt that a shallower, wider design would be far more practical and efficient for my gardening needs.

And I was absolutely right! This new tote accommodates all my essential gardening tools and supplies perfectly, with plenty of room to spare. Its thoughtful design makes it incredibly easy to pick up, carry, and set down without fuss. The shallow, wide opening ensures that everything is immediately visible and accessible, eliminating the frustrating search for buried items.

Initially, I was a little disappointed that it didn’t feature external pockets on both sides for tools, a characteristic of my previous bag. However, after using it for a while, I’ve come to appreciate its streamlined form. It makes carrying the tote much more comfortable, preventing tools from bumping against my legs. Plus, the numerous loops within the main compartment offer ample space for additional tool organization, making it highly versatile. While technically designed as a general tool tote, I firmly believe it’s an absolutely PERFECT solution for gardeners, and I anticipate it will serve me reliably for many years to come. (Intrigued? You can find this fantastic tote here.)

Charming Slate Garden Tags

It seems this month was indeed filled with wonderful garden discoveries! Both the practical new tote and these delightful slate garden tags were purchased with birthday gift cards, items I had been admiring for quite some time (the slate tags also made an appearance on that very same garden gift guide list, proving they were truly on my wish list!).

Now, do I *absolutely need* a tag to tell me these are strawberries? Realistically, no, not at all, haha. But do these elegant tags enhance my garden, bringing a little spark of joy and beauty every single time I step outside? Absolutely, unequivocally yes. There’s something undeniably charming about adding these small, aesthetic touches that elevate the everyday experience of gardening.

You, too, can infuse your garden with this same blend of beauty and joy simply by clicking here to discover these lovely slate tags.

May Reads: A Journey Through Seven Books

This past month proved to be a fruitful one for reading, as I delved into seven different books, a mix of audiobooks and physical copies. Most offered immense enjoyment and valuable insights, one was merely passable, and one, I candidly admit, I wish I hadn’t spent my time on.

Through the Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot: I first read this profound book in college, and in recent years, I’ve found immense satisfaction in revisiting significant books through audiobooks. Listening to this narrative now, as a wife and mother, adds an entirely new dimension to its powerful message. This is the harrowing yet inspiring account of Jim Elliot and his missionary team’s unwavering commitment to reach the then-isolated Auca (now Waorani) people in the Peruvian jungle, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. The book is rich with personal journal entries and letters from the missionaries, offering a poignant glimpse into their hearts and their hopeful, yet ultimately heartbreaking, pursuit of connecting with the Aucas. It’s a narrative that starkly illuminates the vast changes in our modern world; I often wonder aloud to Brian if young men today are still documenting such deeply spiritual and purposeful reflections in their journals (certainly, Brian and I weren’t during our college years!). This book remains incredibly worthwhile and thought-provoking.

Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth (Book 1): Having caught a few episodes of the PBS series and heard numerous recommendations, I’ve long wanted to read these books. As a history enthusiast, I found some of the stories within absolutely incredible—they paint a vivid picture that often felt more akin to the late 1800s or early 1900s than the 1950s. The descriptions of living conditions and pervasive poverty are truly astounding. It’s important to note that the book includes some rather graphic scenes, particularly those surrounding the prostitution narrative, which I found quite disturbing. However, the overarching story of the dedicated nuns and nurses ministering to the poor was profoundly moving, and tracing the author’s own journey of faith throughout the narrative was genuinely refreshing and uplifting.

Call the Midwife: Shadows of the Workhouses by Jennifer Worth (Book 2): I listened to these books sequentially and was a bit surprised to discover that this volume deviates significantly from the first and third books in the series. Unlike the others, this book contains very little about midwifery and only a few stories featuring the nurses and nuns. Instead, it offers a deep dive into the history of the workhouses, exploring the challenging lives and circumstances that surrounded these institutions. While historically interesting, in my personal opinion, it lacked the profound sense of humanity, warmth, and joy that so richly permeated the other two books, making it a more somber read.

Call the Midwife: Farewell to the East End by Jennifer Worth (Book 3): This book was a welcome return to the compelling narratives of the nuns and nurses, and their vital work in bringing new life into the world. By this point, I was deeply invested in the lives of the residents of Nonnatus House, and it was a joy to hear more about the author’s continued experiences there. Highlights included a truly sweet love story and an unforgettable account of a birth that took place on a ship, which captivated me. The concluding section, where we learn the eventual fates of many of the characters we’d grown to know, provided a satisfying sense of closure, even if some of their outcomes were surprising—but such is the unpredictable nature of real life, isn’t it?

Made for the Journey by Elisabeth Elliot: This book chronicles Elisabeth Elliot’s experiences during her initial year as a missionary, prior to her marriage to Jim Elliot. In it, she recounts her arduous journey of documenting an unknown language, a critical step toward eventually translating the Bible for the native peoples in the Peruvian jungle. Her story details her fervent prayers for a translator proficient in both Spanish and the indigenous language, the miraculous provision of such a person, and his tragic murder shortly thereafter. Compounding this devastation, all her year’s worth of meticulous language work, carried in a suitcase, was lost. She eloquently describes how these immense setbacks challenged her faith, ultimately teaching her the profound lesson that God, not Elisabeth, is truly in control. This narrative served as a powerful, timely reminder and an incredibly inspiring story for me.

Veronica Mars – The Thousand Dollar Tan Line by Rob Thomas: Let me preface this by saying it’s a light, breezy read, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the Veronica Mars TV series with my daughter. When Modern Mrs. Darcy recommended this as a decent YA thriller, I promptly borrowed it from the library. The book perfectly captures the essence of the TV series and movies; it’s set later in Veronica’s life, incorporating adult themes, yet it retains all the classic detective elements and beloved characters from the show. It’s exactly what you’d expect for a fan of the franchise—a quick, entertaining diversion. I honestly found myself skimming through much of it, enjoying the familiar tone without getting too deeply invested.

City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert: Ah, this is the book I subtly hinted at in my introduction—and to be completely honest, I genuinely debated whether to even include it in this list. However, given its widespread popularity and frequent appearances on various “must-read” lists (which is precisely why I waited months for it from the library), I feel a responsibility to offer an honest perspective, particularly if your reading tastes align with mine. This novel tells the story of a protagonist who comes across as thoroughly amoral and, frankly, not very likable. I found virtually nothing redeeming within its pages; the narrative felt like a continuous affirmation of “I am what I am, perhaps with a fleeting regret for one minor misstep…” What stretched my credulity beyond belief was the premise that anyone would reveal such intimate and explicit details of their life to a complete stranger—it felt entirely implausible. The primary reason I regret reading it stems from a couple of scenes, one in particular, that I genuinely wish had not entered my mind. While the book receives considerable praise, often attributed to the author’s previous success (Elizabeth Gilbert also wrote “Eat, Pray, Love,” a book I’ve never been inclined to read) and its “woman power” theme, I fundamentally disagree with its message. The main character, portrayed as a woman who disregards traditional marriage (conveniently engaging in frequent sexual encounters with various men without consequence) and successfully navigates the world independently, does not present a commendable model. I would not recommend this book to anyone.

Captivating Screens: What We’ve Been Watching

Television Series:

Upload (Amazon Prime): This is a thoroughly enjoyable and remarkably well-executed show, set in a near future that feels just plausible enough for some of its technological concepts to seem within reach (self-driving cars, for instance, are already in testing phases today). It masterfully blends humor with profound emotional depth, addressing age-old philosophical questions about life, death, and consciousness, all while maintaining an engaging “whodunit” storyline. The premise of uploading one’s consciousness to a digital afterlife is explored with both wit and heart. (A quick heads-up: It is rated TV-MA due to occasional strong language, themes of murder, and sexual situations, though nothing is portrayed graphically.)

Stand-Up Comedy:

Jerry Seinfeld: 23 Hours to Kill (Netflix): Brian and I absolutely adored this stand-up special! Then again, we generally enjoy most of Jerry Seinfeld’s work, particularly his stand-up routines. We were even fortunate enough to see him live back in the 90s in Portland, and we laughed so hard we literally cried. This special delivers classic, quintessential Jerry Seinfeld—witty observations on everyday life delivered with his signature clean style. If you’re in need of a genuinely good, wholesome laugh (there are a few swear words, but he’s generally known for keeping it clean), this is definitely the show for you.

Movies:

District 9 (2009) (Netflix): Our son enthusiastically recommended this film, and we’re truly puzzled as to how we managed to miss it all these years, because we found it profoundly compelling. I’ve since read that it’s widely regarded as one of the best science fiction films of the 2000s, and I wholeheartedly agree. While it contains intensely gory scenes, its powerful exploration of themes like love, humanity, xenophobia, and racism ensures that the movie lingers in your thoughts long after the credits roll. I learned that it cleverly serves as an allegory for South Africa’s apartheid era and its treatment of Black citizens, which provides a deeply sobering and insightful layer to the narrative.

Mad Max: Fury Road (Amazon): This was another film one of our children, our daughter, suggested back in 2015 that we simply never got around to watching. However, after reading a fascinating article touting it as one of the best films ever made—and highlighting its incredible production—we finally made time to sit down and experience it. If you’re familiar with the other Mad Max movies, you know what to expect: a relentless torrent of action and violence. Yet, beneath the high-octane spectacle, there’s a surprising depth of heart and unexpected acts of kindness. Charlize Theron delivers an absolutely phenomenal performance in this installment.

Emma (2020) (Amazon): This adaptation of Jane Austen’s beloved novel “Emma” was an utterly charming and delightfully lighthearted cinematic experience. The vibrant color palette, exquisite period sets, and playful musical score all contributed to a wonderfully fun and frothy romp. Thankfully, the core story remained faithful to Austen’s original, but with a few refreshing updates: a noticeably more likable Emma and a Mr. Knightley whose portrayal felt more grounded and realistic. While I initially thought the actor playing Mr. Knightley seemed a bit too young for the role, I truly appreciated how the film allowed us to witness more of his internal struggle and eventual acceptance of his feelings for Emma. I also particularly valued the nuanced depiction of Emma’s growth and maturation, transitioning from her initial selfish snobbery into the caring, insightful person she ultimately becomes. Many people (including my own daughter, coincidentally named Emma!) often find Austen’s Emma challenging to like, but she has always been one of my favorite heroines because her journey is so real, so human—we witness her profound growth and change, much like most of us experience in our own lives. (Oh, and a special mention: Bill Nighy, as Emma’s father, absolutely steals nearly every scene he appears in with his perfectly eccentric charm!)

The Vast of Night (Amazon Original): This Amazon original film is a compelling, atmospheric piece set in the 1950s, revolving around a mysterious visitation from a spaceship to a small, isolated town. It is, however, an incredibly slow-moving film—and I mean *very* slow. There are minutes dedicated to observing legs running along a road or bicycle wheels turning, which deliberately builds the tension and atmosphere. While the period sets were meticulously crafted and the two lead actors delivered very strong performances, the ending felt somewhat unsatisfactory after such an extended, deliberate build-up. It left us wanting a bit more resolution. (Note: The film is quite clean overall, with only a few instances of mild language.)

That’s it for another exciting edition of the Good Things List!

If you’re eager to explore more of my recent favorites and discoveries, you can browse all the previous Good Things Lists right here. I’m always thrilled to hear your thoughts—whether you’ve tried any of these recommendations or have your own amazing suggestions. Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below and share your insights!

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