September’s Ultimate Guide: Cultivating Joy with Easy Gardening, Fall Fashion, Must-Read Books & Stream-Worthy Entertainment

A monthly list of good things to do, buy, read, watch, and more, helping you embrace the season with ease and inspiration.

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As the crispness gently returns to the air, signaling the departure of summer’s heat, the world outside transforms. The sun now bathes everything in that unmistakable, rich autumn golden light, and the garden, ever generous, continues to yield its late-season abundance. With such beauty unfurling around us, it’s a true delight to say, “Welcome, September!” This month brings with it not only a shift in scenery but also a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh collection of “good things” to share with you.

Here at the farmhouse, September is set to be a bustling month, weather permitting. Our top priority is finally weather-proofing the exterior of our beloved home. This involves the meticulous task of pulling countless nails from the siding and having our skilled builder add essential molding and caulk every window and corner. It’s a significant undertaking, but getting the farmhouse ready for the impending rainy season is absolutely critical. We’re also eagerly anticipating the commencement of our master bedroom expansion – we’re just patiently waiting for that crucial permit to come through. Unfortunately, the deer fence project didn’t get finished last month as hoped, but with the farmhouse demanding our immediate attention, it has to take a backseat for now. Still, progress is being made, step by step!

This month’s curated list of good things is particularly exciting, especially since it includes a project I’ve poured months of dedication into just for you: my brand-new ebook! It’s your ultimate guide to truly easy gardening, designed to simplify your green thumb journey. Even better, it’s part of the incredible Ultimate Healthy Living Bundle, which is available for a limited time, starting today and running only through September 10th. Beyond the garden, I’m also thrilled to share some delightful mugs I recently acquired and three versatile tops I’m adding to my fall wardrobe that I think you’ll love. And, as always, I’ll provide my candid reviews of the books I devoured (I’ve even set a new monthly reading record!) and the shows that captivated us. Don’t forget to let me know your own good finds and experiences in the comments below!

Discovering September’s Good Things: A Curated Selection

Vegetable Gardening The Easy Way is more than just an ebook; it’s your comprehensive, one-stop resource designed to streamline your gardening process. For years, I’ve shared countless easy gardening tips and tricks on this blog, and now, I’ve gathered all that invaluable wisdom into a single, accessible guide. No more hunting through old articles – everything you need is right here, organized and ready to empower your gardening journey.

But it’s not just a compilation; I’ve also incorporated brand new insights and expanded on existing techniques, providing even more practical advice. What truly sets this ebook apart is the extensive collection of printables I’ve included, some beloved classics from the blog and many entirely new creations. These resources are meticulously crafted to guide you every step of the way, from the initial seed planting to the joyous moment of harvest, ensuring your experience is as effortless and rewarding as possible.

If you’re among the many gardeners who feel perpetually tied down by tedious digging and endless weeding, I genuinely believe I have the perfect solution for you. The spoiler is simple yet revolutionary: you absolutely do not have to spend all your precious garden time on these back-breaking chores. My methods focus on working smarter, not harder, allowing you to enjoy the bounties of your garden without the usual overwhelm. This ebook is ideal for both seasoned gardeners looking for more efficient practices and absolute beginners hoping to cultivate success without the common frustrations. Dive in and discover a more joyful, productive way to grow your own food.

Click here to read more about Vegetable Gardening the Easy Way and transform your approach to growing.

Charming Magnolia Stoneware Mugs

I recently indulged in a set of these absolutely delightful black and white mugs from Magnolia, and I couldn’t be happier with them! They possess a charming, rustic tinware aesthetic, yet they are crafted from sturdy ceramic, which means no more burning your fingers on hot beverages – a functional upgrade I truly appreciate. I originally spotted these beautiful mugs during our visit to the Magnolia Silos last spring. While I was smitten, the logistical challenge of fitting them into our luggage, combined with the prospect of enduring a lengthy queue for “free shipping,” meant I had to reluctantly pass them up at the time.

However, serendipity struck with Magnolia’s September Sale, where all their sale items were offered at a fantastic half-off discount! This was the perfect opportunity to finally bring these beauties home. Now, I can acquire two mugs for essentially the price of one, which conveniently offsets the standard $6 shipping fee anyway. It felt like a small victory and a perfectly justified purchase. These mugs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also a wonderful addition to my morning routine, making every cup of coffee or tea feel a little more special. If you’re looking for a blend of rustic charm and everyday practicality, these are a definite recommendation.

Go here to explore the Magnolia September Sale and discover your own charming finds.

Fall Wardrobe Refresh: Old Navy Finds

With the arrival of cooler temperatures, I decided it was time for a little fall shopping at Old Navy, especially when they hosted a fantastic 50% off tops sale. For savvy shoppers, it’s worth noting that Old Navy frequently runs sales, often 40% off, and sometimes even 50% – signing up for their emails is the best way to catch these deals! I’ve always been drawn to earth tones, particularly sage and army green hues, so I was thrilled to see them making a strong comeback this season. Here’s a closer look at the three versatile pieces I added to my wardrobe (from left to right in the image above):

• Hunter Pines Shirt Jacket: I’m someone who’s perpetually cold, which means layering is a non-negotiable part of my style for fall, winter, and even spring, ha! This heavy “shirt jacket” immediately caught my eye, not only for its beautiful color but also for its practical versatility. It’s substantial enough to serve as a cozy outer layer over a long-sleeved tee on colder days, or it can be worn unbuttoned over a cami when the weather is milder, providing a perfect transitional piece. Its robust fabric also adds a nice textural element to any outfit.
• Black Dot Popover Shirt: I already own a similar lightweight shirt in a black and white floral print, and it has proven to be incredibly versatile. This new black dot version promises the same adaptability. It looks effortlessly chic on its own (I often tuck just the front in for a relaxed yet polished look), can be layered beautifully under a long cardigan or sweater, or dressed up with a blazer for those rare occasions when I need to appear a bit more “business-like.” While formal business attire isn’t a frequent necessity for me, it’s always reassuring to have stylish options readily available for when those moments arise.
• Green Printed Lightweight Blouse: Given how successfully the black styles have integrated into my wardrobe, I felt this green printed blouse would be a delightful and fun addition. The print adds a subtle visual interest without being overpowering. I’ve already mentally styled it in several ways: paired with my favorite jeans for a casual outing, layered under my long black sweater for extra warmth and sophistication, and completed with classic black booties. It’s the kind of piece that can elevate everyday looks with minimal effort.

After finding these perfect pieces, and even though I cherish the last vestiges of warmer weather, I can confidently say it’s officially okay for fall to make its grand entrance now. Bring on the cozy layers and vibrant autumn colors! 😉

August Reads: A Personal Bestseller List

Well, August turned out to be an exceptional reading month for me – I hit a new personal record, devouring 10 books! (Though, technically, it was 9 if I don’t count “The Moonstone” by Wilkie Collins, which we abandoned halfway through due to sheer boredom. To be fair, it was a truly terrible recorded audiobook, so that might have been the primary culprit.) Here are the six books that either captivated my attention or left a lasting impression, for better or worse:

• A Grief Observed, C.S. Lewis. I’m steadily making my way through C.S. Lewis’s profound works available via audiobook from my local library. While I’m not currently experiencing the devastating loss of a loved one, the reality is that loss, in one form or another, is an inherent part of the human experience throughout our entire lives. Listening to Lewis’s deeply personal and raw ruminations on living, loving, and ultimately losing his wife, and what that journey meant for his faith and existence moving forward, was incredibly refreshing and insightful. His honesty provides a comforting universality. This particular quote resonated deeply and applies to everyone, regardless of the specific hardship they might be navigating:
  

  The time when there is nothing at all in your soul except a cry for help may be just that time when God can’t give it: you are like the drowning man who can’t be helped because he clutches and grabs. Perhaps your own reiterated cries deafen you to the voice you hoped to hear.

  This passage beautifully captures the paradox of human desperation and divine intervention, offering a moment for profound self-reflection.

• Talking As Fast As I Can, Lauren Graham. I actually gave a shout-out to this book during the “cool things” segment of our last podcast episode, specifically for her ingenious kitchen timer writing technique. The rest of the book is an engaging and often humorous memoir, detailing her early struggles as an aspiring actress, her breakthrough roles on “Gilmore Girls” and “Parenthood,” and her experiences with the much-anticipated “Gilmore Girls” reboot. It’s a fun, light, and thoroughly enjoyable read, perfect for fans of her work or anyone looking for a dose of celebrity insight with a genuine voice.
• The Secret Keeper, Kate Morton. I’ve heard so many glowing recommendations for Kate Morton’s novels; many avid readers consistently place her books on their ‘best of’ lists. Intrigued, I finally decided to dive in, choosing this particular title as it’s frequently mentioned. However, I must confess, it was just “okay” for me. I’m still trying to pinpoint why it didn’t quite grab me as I’d hoped. One element that proved challenging was the back-and-forth narrative structure, spanning different timelines. I found it made it difficult to truly immerse myself in or deeply care about the characters and their evolving stories. While there is a significant twist at the end, I felt it was foreshadowed quite heavily throughout the book, lessening its impact. I’m left wondering: should I give her other books a try, or is her particular style simply not for me? At this point, I’m not immediately drawn to explore further.
• Big Little Lies, Liane Moriarty. I ultimately succumbed to the enormous buzz surrounding the Netflix show based on this book. So, when it popped up in my library app, I downloaded it and listened while I was diligently pulling nails from our farmhouse siding. And what a soap opera it turned out to be! Honestly, I genuinely didn’t like this book at all. The world it depicted seemed so small, insular, and filled with petty dramas that I just couldn’t connect with. In fact, this was another book I ultimately didn’t finish. I made it about three-quarters of the way through before simply reading a synopsis online to find out the ending (which featured another so-called “twist” – I wonder if this trend of relying on twists is the prevailing way to write books these days?). A warning to potential readers: be aware that the book contains strong language and depicts some tough, mature situations.
• My Name is Lucy Barton, Elizabeth Strout. This was a sweet, unassuming little book, though I went into it expecting a more conventional plot. When it abruptly ended, I was genuinely taken off guard – I found myself thinking, “Really, that was it?” Despite my surprise at the narrative structure, I did appreciate how the complex background and ongoing issues between the mother and daughter were gently and subtly unfolded, revealing layers of their relationship without heavy-handed exposition. I know many people absolutely adore this book for its quiet introspection and poignant character study, even if it wasn’t quite what I anticipated.
• Rendezvous with Rama, Arthur C. Clarke. In one word: boring. This was the audiobook Brian and I embarked on together this month. Brian has read other Arthur C. Clarke books in the past and quite enjoyed them, so we had high hopes. However, literally nothing of consequence happens in this book. And just when you think something interesting might finally occur…it doesn’t. The entire premise revolves around the discovery of a colossal, cylindrical alien ship-planet. The characters then proceed to explore it, delving into minute, excruciating details that we, as listeners, simply could not care less about – we endured chapters upon chapters describing their journey up and down huge, seemingly endless flights of stairs! Eventually, they leave, and the ship simply flies off. Riveting, right? Apparently, we are in the distinct minority, because I later saw on Amazon that this book garnered numerous awards and boasts overwhelmingly positive reviews. Oh well – to each his own, right? Our experience was decidedly underwhelming.

What We’ve Been Watching This Month

Movie:

Mission Impossible: Fallout. This was the big screen adventure we enjoyed with our daughter this month. True to form for the “Mission Impossible” franchise, it delivered exactly what we expected: relentless, high-octane action sequences, superb production quality, and truly impressive stunts. What elevated this particular installment was a surprisingly well-crafted and engaging storyline that kept us invested beyond just the spectacle. We all thoroughly enjoyed the ride, making it a perfect family outing.

TV/Streaming:

• ER on Hulu – I fondly remember “ER” from its original run in the 1990s; Thursdays were always dedicated “ER nights” for Brian and me. I recently encouraged our daughter to watch this classic medical drama to see if it would capture her interest, and to my delight, not only does she love it – I do too, still! The show has remarkably held up over time, remaining just as compelling and well-produced as I recall. Since I only remember the major plot points, many of the smaller storylines feel fresh and new to me. It’s been a wonderful rediscovery, and I genuinely look forward to watching new (to us) episodes with her now.
• Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society on Netflix – We had heard numerous positive things about this film, so as soon as it became available on Netflix, we settled in to watch it with our daughter. None of us had read the book, so we can’t speak to its faithfulness as an adaptation. However, as a standalone film, it was a truly sweet and heartwarming movie. We particularly appreciated learning more about the lesser-known experiences of the Channel Islanders during World War II and the unique challenges faced by the island of Guernsey under occupation. It was a poignant and touching narrative.
• Wanted on Netflix – This series was a complete and utter surprise! We stumbled upon it, watched a trailer on a whim, decided to give it a shot, and so far, we’re really enjoying it. The premise follows two Australian women who, through no fault of their own, become inextricably entangled in a botched robbery and killing. This forces them to go on the run from crooked cops who are trying to frame them. What makes it so engaging is that these two women, who were complete strangers, each carry their own secrets and complicated pasts, making them feel incredibly real and layered. We’ve watched three episodes so far and are completely hooked, eager to see where their perilous journey will take them. It’s rated TV-14, which, in Netflix terms, is akin to a PG rating, ha!
• This is How It Ends on Netflix – Oh gosh, how I genuinely wish we had encountered even one of the overwhelmingly bad reviews for this movie before we watched it! (One from Forbes I just read actually said, “Don’t waste 2 hours of your life on this movie,” or something to that discouraging effect). This film is a masterclass in frustration: it poses countless intriguing questions but provides absolutely no answers, ever – and to add insult to injury, it has no discernible ending (is the title supposed to be ironic or a cruel joke?). Characters appear, take up valuable screen time, and then simply… leave, without resolution or purpose. I’m honestly still not sure what it was supposed to be about, but I do deeply wish I could reclaim those two hours of my life! Save yourself the trouble.

That wraps up another delightful edition of the Good Things List! If you’re curious to explore more of what I’m enjoying and finding inspiring, you can check out all the previous Good Things Lists here. I’m always eager to hear from you – please share your thoughts! Have you tried any of these recommendations? What are your current “good things” – books you’re reading, shows you’re watching, or even fashion finds you love? Leave a comment below with your insights and recommendations; I’d love to know what makes your month great!

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