May’s Delights: DIY Laundry Room Transformation, Smart Kitchen Tools, & Essential Reading & Watching

Good things to do, buy, read, and watch! In this month’s carefully curated list, you’ll discover our ingenious DIY laundry room sink and shelf reveal, an indispensable kitchen tool that conquers my least favorite task, six insightful book reviews, and much more to inspire and enrich your life.

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Welcome to May – truly one of my most cherished months of the year! Beyond the vibrant energy it brings to the garden, with its burgeoning blooms, exciting first harvests, and vigorous new growth ready for planting, May is also a month brimming with celebrations. We honor mothers on Mother’s Day, mark my own birthday and those of other beloved family members, and observe Memorial Day, which unofficially ushers in the glorious summer season. It’s a time of renewal, joy, and anticipation, perfectly setting the stage for a collection of “good things.”

After a period of relative quiet regarding the progress of our beloved 1900s farmhouse renovation, I am thrilled to finally share not one, but two significant updates this week. First, I’m unveiling the DIY project that officially completes our laundry room – a truly satisfying milestone! Second, you can read all about the major progress we’ve accomplished upstairs in this detailed post. These updates represent countless hours of work and dedication, and I’m so excited to finally pull back the curtain on these transformations.

Moreover, this month’s reading list includes a book that I predict will earn a coveted spot on my year-end “best of” compilation. From practical home improvements and invaluable kitchen aids to captivating literary journeys and entertaining media, this May’s list is packed with diverse recommendations designed to enhance your daily life. Let’s dive into all the wonderful things I’ve been discovering and enjoying!

May’s Curated “Good Things” List

DIY Farmhouse Laundry Room Sink & Shelf: A Long-Awaited Transformation

Completing the transformation of our former storage area into a fully functional laundry room and back-door mudroom has been a journey. The final, and arguably most anticipated, tasks on this renovation list were the construction and installation of a proper utility sink and a practical shelf above the washer and dryer. For years, as an avid grower of vegetables and flowers, I’ve yearned for a utility sink conveniently located near our back door. This desire has persisted since we moved into the farmhouse four years ago (yes, *cough*, it’s been that long!). I even purchased the sink and faucet back then, optimistically believing the project would be completed in a matter of months.

The primary challenge was the limited space available. Most commercially available utility sinks offer virtually no counter space, which simply wouldn’t meet our needs. I knew that by building it ourselves, we could ingeniously incorporate at least six inches of valuable counter space on each side of the basin – crucial for setting down gardening tools, freshly cut flowers, or laundry essentials. However, as is often the case with custom projects, building something from scratch tends to push it further down the to-do list. Components were slowly tackled – the legs were built and attached to a plywood top – but then life intervened, wood needed finishing, and time simply slipped by.

Finally, all the stars aligned, and we managed to get this project completed just before Easter. While I initially preferred a design without a skirt, I am absolutely thrilled with the final outcome. The convenience of having a designated space to process vegetables and flowers here, rather than cluttering the kitchen, is an absolute game-changer. It has brought so much functionality and organization to this high-traffic area of our home. This DIY sink has not only met but exceeded my expectations for both utility and farmhouse aesthetic.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how we brought this custom laundry sink to life:

1. We began by attaching a sturdy 2×4 board, cut precisely to size, to the wall using screws at our desired counter height. This provides robust support for the entire structure.
2. Next, two 4×4 wood legs (we chose fir or hemlock for their durability and appearance) were cut to the appropriate length. These were then securely screwed into a scrap plywood top, which was sized to perfectly fit the available space.
3. The plywood top, with its attached legs, was then screwed firmly into the 2×4 support on the wall, creating a stable and level base for the counter.
4. For the counter surface, we utilized clear fir/hemlock 1×4 boards. These were meticulously glued to the plywood top, creating a solid and attractive surface. A precise cut-out was made for the sink basin. We then stained and applied polyurethane to the counter, mirroring the finish we used for our kitchen counters here, ensuring durability and a cohesive look. Small 1-inch trim pieces were cut and stained to provide a polished finish for the raw edges of the wood. I blended a variety of stains we had on hand to achieve the perfect custom color, primarily relying on Minwax’s Early American and Special Walnut.
5. Underneath the counter, we added painted 1×4 boards to create a solid skirting. This not only provided structural integrity but also offered a convenient attachment point for a towel bar. The edge adjacent to the counter was elegantly finished with quarter-round shoe molding, cut to size.
6. The sink and faucet were then installed. We connected them to the existing water lines, which we had previously installed when we initially converted this space into a laundry room. Over the years, we’ve sourced all our stainless steel sinks – both for our cottage kitchen remodel and the farmhouse kitchen – from MR Direct Sinks, consistently appreciating their quality and affordability. Unfortunately, I’ve recently learned that direct purchases from their site are no longer possible, and links from other retailers seem to be unavailable. However, this particular faucet is an absolute favorite of mine. Its moderate height is a distinct advantage, and its flexible, easy-to-use design makes it incredibly practical.
7. To conceal the less aesthetically pleasing underside of the sink and provide hidden storage, I sewed a simple skirt from classic black and cream ticking fabric. Attaching this proved a bit tricky, but we ultimately used heavy, easily bendable wire attached to eyelet screws and hooks to ensure it hangs perfectly without sagging.
8. Finally, I purchased this large cabinet pull, repurposing it brilliantly as a towel rod. It works absolutely perfectly and adds a touch of functional elegance.

The final touch to this renovated laundry room was the addition of a sturdy shelf positioned above the washer and dryer. This seemingly simple addition has been an absolute game-changer, allowing us to finally organize and declutter the items that perpetually accumulated on the sloping top of the dryer.

This shelf serves two crucial purposes. Firstly, it provides a dedicated and easily accessible space for laundry supplies, such as detergent, fabric softener, and stain removers, along with a collection of flower vases. Secondly, and equally important, it effectively conceals the unsightly plumbing and electrical connections behind the machines, creating a much tidier and more aesthetically pleasing environment.

Brian meticulously cut a 1×10-inch fir/hemlock board to the precise dimensions required. While the cost of a solid wood board was not insignificant, the resulting durability and quality of the shelf made it a worthwhile investment. I stained the wood to perfectly complement the finish of the new sink counter, ensuring a cohesive and harmonious look throughout the space. We then securely attached the shelf using these robust floating shelf brackets. Interestingly, we installed them in the opposite orientation compared to how we utilized them for our reclaimed wood shelves in another area, demonstrating their versatility.

It has been truly wonderful to utilize this newly finished area. The improved functionality and organized aesthetic of the laundry room have brought immense satisfaction. Of course, there’s always one more project on the horizon, isn’t there? I still envision building a pull-out drying rack for the old window well – but that, indeed, is a project for another day down the road. (Ha – don’t I always seem to have a “well, except for…” comment when talking about finished projects? It’s the nature of homeownership, I suppose!).

Revolutionizing Garlic Prep: The Indispensable Garlic Chopper Tool

There are very few kitchen tasks that I can genuinely say I dislike, but if I had to pick just one, it would undeniably be peeling and chopping garlic. Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless tools and presses, hoping to find a solution that truly worked for me, but nothing ever quite hit the mark. While I’ve simplified the peeling process by exclusively growing hard-neck garlic now, the act of finely chopping garlic has always remained a tedious and time-consuming chore.

So, when I first learned about this innovative garlic twist a few months ago, recommended by a fellow food blogger, I approached it with cautious optimism. I held off on reviewing it immediately, wanting to thoroughly test its capabilities, especially since it’s not exactly a budget item for what appears to be two small plastic rounds. However, I am now here to declare unequivocally: it is absolutely WORTH IT.

The process is incredibly simple and effective. You place a few peeled garlic cloves inside (it works optimally with 3-4 cloves, depending on their size), give it a couple of twists, and voilà – you have perfectly minced garlic in seconds! I use the tip of a knife to easily scrape out all the garlic (and I don’t worry about a few tiny pieces left behind). That dreaded chore, which once consumed precious minutes, is now completed with astonishing speed and minimal effort. For anyone who shares my aversion to garlic prep, I cannot recommend this tool highly enough. It has truly transformed my cooking experience.

​Discover the Magic of the Garlic Twister here and make your kitchen life easier.

Mastering Your Carbon Steel Pan: An Updated Guide

Do you recall my enthusiastic review a few months back about the impressive non-stick capabilities of this carbon steel pan? While it continued to perform admirably for fried eggs and general sautéing, I found myself increasingly frustrated as many other foods began to stick after a couple of months of use. Scrambled eggs, blackened fish, and browning chicken breasts became particular culprits. I was on the verge of issuing a warning, concerned that I might have spoken too soon about its sustained performance.

BUT, a bit of dedicated research into carbon steel pan usage completely turned things around. I discovered that pre-seasoned pans, while convenient initially, often don’t maintain their seasoning effectively with regular use. More importantly, I learned several key techniques that drastically reduce sticking, even with traditionally tricky foods.

And it worked! I successfully scrambled eggs with literally NO sticking, and browned chicken breasts without any issue. It was a revelation! Here are the essential techniques that made all the difference:

• Proper Heat Management: Begin by heating the pan on medium heat with a couple of teaspoons of oil. The crucial point here is balance – the pan cannot be too hot *or* too cold. My stove tends to run hot, and I believe this was a significant part of my initial problem.
• Patience is Key: Allow the pan to truly heat up. I realized I wasn’t giving it nearly enough time. A good tip I picked up is to turn on the heat, then prepare your ingredients (like scrambling eggs in a bowl) while the pan steadily comes to temperature.
• Introduce More Fat: Once the pan is heated, add butter (or more oil) and swirl it around. If you’re using butter, it shouldn’t brown immediately; if it does, your pan is too hot and needs to cool slightly.
• A Sprinkle of Salt (Optional for Eggs): For eggs, an optional but effective trick is to sprinkle a small amount of kosher salt onto the bottom of the pan before adding the eggs. This acts much like cornmeal on pizza dough, helping the food release more easily. Just remember not to salt the tops of your eggs afterward if you use this method.
• Lower Heat for Eggs: When adding eggs for a scramble, immediately turn the heat to LOW (or medium-low if your stove cooks cooler than mine). Let the eggs sit undisturbed until they visibly start to cook and solidify on the bottom.
• Gentle Movement: Once the eggs have set slightly, use a metal spatula to gently push the cooked edges towards the center, continuing to cook and fold until they reach your desired consistency. You’ll find absolutely NO sticking!
• Meat Searing Techniques: For meats, follow a similar approach, but start with slightly higher heat initially, then lower the temperature. You can even add salt directly to the pan instead of seasoning the meat beforehand if you prefer. Allow the meat to sit undisturbed over the lower heat until it naturally releases from the pan before attempting to turn it. This patience prevents tearing and ensures a beautiful crust.

The main caveat is that you do need to use a sufficient amount of fat. However, the fantastic bonus is that with nothing stuck to the surface, cleanup becomes incredibly simple: just wipe out the pan – no need for water or re-seasoning! (I now realize that all my previous scrubbing of stuck food was counterproductive, stripping away the seasoning and creating a frustrating catch-22 cycle.)

So, yes, with these newfound techniques, I wholeheartedly still recommend this carbon steel pan for its superior cooking performance and durability!

April’s Literary Adventures: Six Diverse Books Reviewed

April brought a rich and varied selection of books into my reading life. From heartwarming tales of self-discovery to fascinating historical accounts and gripping post-apocalyptic narratives, here’s a look at what I read last month:

Mrs. Quinn’s Rise To Fame, Olivia Ford. This book was an absolute delight – genuinely sweet and utterly charming! Mrs. Quinn, a woman who has lived a quiet, contented life with her husband in a quaint English town, makes an impulsive decision to enter a British bake-off style television show. She never for a moment expects to be selected, let alone stand a chance at winning. The heart of the story unfolds as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, gradually expanding her world, confronting long-buried elements of her past, and coming to terms with who she is. All of this is set against a captivating, behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating process of how these popular baking shows are produced. It’s a truly fun and uplifting read that leaves you with a warm feeling.

The Small and The Mighty: Twelve Unsung Americans Who Changed the Course of History, Sharon McMahon. I admit, I started this book without a clear understanding of its premise; I had simply seen it highly recommended by several book lovers I follow online. As a passionate history enthusiast, I found it incredibly engaging from that perspective (the author, a former teacher, is affectionately known as “America’s Government Teacher”). The individuals she chose to highlight were utterly fascinating, demonstrating the profound impact seemingly ordinary people can have. One of her compelling arguments is that while our current political landscape may seem riddled with unprecedented arguing and fighting, there is indeed “nothing new under the sun.” She illustrates this with examples, such as a senator in the 1800s who physically assaulted another member with a stick, inflicting injuries so severe that the victim couldn’t resume his seat for three years – and astonishingly, the assailant was *not* censored by the Senate! While I was already familiar with the stories of about a third of the twelve individuals, the book as a whole was profoundly inspiring and uplifting, reaffirming how even the smallest lives can make an enormous difference in the grand tapestry of history.

The Extraordinary Life of an Ordinary Man, Paul Newman. I picked this up on a whim from Libby, searching for an audiobook to listen to while gardening. Who doesn’t admire his iconic movies, and of course, his famous salad dressings? Sadly, this autobiography painted a somewhat less flattering picture of the man. While he was undeniably honest in his recounting, he confessed to carrying on a lengthy affair with Joanne Woodward for years before divorcing his first wife and marrying her. I’m glad they found happiness together, but the duration of the affair still gives pause. He also revealed a surprising dislike for acting (genuinely) and attributed many of his struggles to a tough childhood and difficult parents. In hindsight, I almost wish I hadn’t read it; I would prefer to remember him solely through the heroic characters he portrayed on screen and his significant philanthropic endeavors.

I Cheerfully Refuse, Leif Enger. I placed a hold on this at the library and waited so long that by the time it finally arrived, I couldn’t recall what it was about! Consequently, I wasn’t sure what to expect – and what I found was a unique, “sort of” future apocalypse type of story. I say “sort of” because the specifics of what happened are never explicitly revealed. Instead, the narrative hints at a world where once-normal things are scarce, certain areas are inaccessible, a stark division exists between “haves and have-nots,” and an overarching, vaguely oppressive “bad government” system is in place. Intriguingly, reading itself has become frowned upon, with literate individuals viewed with suspicion. Yet, some towns continue to function normally with electricity and modern conveniences, which initially made it challenging for me to grasp the exact state of this future world. The story follows a man leading a quiet life until a sudden tragedy upends his existence, forcing him to flee from a mysterious government scientist agency. The title references a book frequently discussed by characters and embodies the protagonist’s steadfast refusal to take the easy path. Did I enjoy it? I’m still not entirely certain, but it did conclude on a positive and hopeful note, which I always appreciate.

To Woo and To Wed, Martha Waters. Having enjoyed the previous installments in this delightful Regency historical romance series, I eagerly picked up this book from the library to complete the collection. While it wasn’t my favorite of the series, I understood its appeal, especially knowing that readers had been clamoring for the “second-chance” romance story of these two main characters since the very first book. I found the heroine, however, to be a bit exasperating, particularly towards the end when she clung stubbornly to her preconceived notions of the hero, despite him having thoroughly addressed all her concerns. Additionally, two specific aspects led me to skip pages: 1) A significant number of chapters were dedicated to flashbacks, which, after a while, felt redundant as we already largely understood why they didn’t unite the first time. I ended up skipping several of the later flashbacks. And 2) The intimate scenes were a bit too “open door” for my personal preference (though not excessively so compared to some other books, admittedly), leading me to skip those sections as well.

Lonesome Dove, Larry McMurtry. Brian and I listened to this classic Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, and we both enjoyed it immensely! (Curiously, I acquired the audiobook on Audible probably a year ago, and now it appears to be unavailable anywhere else.) Brian was initially skeptical, anticipating a cliché western, but the richly developed characters and exquisite writing quickly dispelled his doubts (hello, Pulitzer!). The story is not an easy one by any means, filled with much death and hardship, but this was precisely McMurtry’s point: being a cowboy in the Old West was far from the romanticized, easy life often portrayed in Hollywood films starting in the 1940s. Having finished the book, we are now eagerly planning to watch the 1980s mini-series, which I haven’t seen since its original airing but remember loving. This book will most likely earn a spot on my year-end best list!

Captivating Screens: What We’ve Been Watching

Wolf Hall: The Mirror and The Light, PBS. This series, encompassing both seasons, is absolutely superb! Both Brian and I found ourselves thoroughly engrossed, not just by the gripping historical narrative but also by the absolutely incredible acting performances and the meticulous, authentic replication of 16th-century scenery, interior designs, and period clothing. It’s a masterclass in historical drama and truly transports you to another era.

The Amateur – In Theaters. After several months of not visiting the cinema (it seemed all the recent releases were either for children, slasher films, or gruesome horror), we decided to see “The Amateur” primarily because it was a PG-13 thriller – a rare find these days when everything seems to be rated R. It proved to be an interesting spy-thriller, reminiscent of Jason Bourne but with a slightly more cerebral, “nerdy” edge. What made it particularly refreshing was the absence of excessive gore, crude language, or overly long, drawn-out fight and chase sequences. It was genuinely enjoyable to experience a story unfold in a more measured and engaging way. (Sadly, the critic score for this film is lower than the audience score, a pattern that often seems to occur with movies of this nature… sigh.)

And that concludes another exciting installment of the Good Things List!

If you’re eager to explore more of my favorite discoveries and recommendations, you can browse all past Good Things Lists here. I genuinely love hearing from you – please share your thoughts, whether you’ve tried any of these recommendations or if you have something wonderful you’d like to suggest. Leave a comment below with your insights!

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