July’s Top Picks: Inspiring Home & Garden, Must-Read Books, and Entertainment Favorites
Welcome to our monthly roundup, where we share a curated list of delightful discoveries, smart purchases, captivating reads, and binge-worthy watches to enrich your life.
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Hello, wonderful friends! I truly hope June was a fantastic month for you, and like me, you’re eagerly anticipating all that July has to offer. Summer truly holds a special place in my heart; there’s nothing quite like the warmth and abundant sunshine that define this season. Here in western Oregon, July usually delivers that quintessential summer experience, a welcome change from June’s unpredictable mix of warm days and sudden showers. Let the sunshine and outdoor living commence!
We’ve now settled into our farmhouse property for two and a half years, marking our third season with the magnificent cherry tree nestled near our vegetable garden. This year, however, presented a heartbreaking challenge. The timing of the June rains coincided perfectly with the cherries’ crucial ripening window—a brief, intense two-week period. Unfortunately, the ripe and nearly ripe cherries all split during the very first week of harvest.
Despite our best efforts, we were only able to gather a couple of small bowlfuls to enjoy before the local bird population discovered them by the end of the second week. This was a stark contrast to the past two years, when we harvested enough to create delicious cherry chutney, savory cherry BBQ sauce, and even a bountiful supply of dried cherries. While disappointing, this experience reminds me of a gardener’s timeless mantra: “There’s always next year!” It’s a philosophy that helps us persevere through nature’s whims, always looking forward to future bounties.
Inspiring Home & Garden Discoveries
A Sustainable & Serene Vegetable Garden Patio
For those of you who receive AOC’s weekly newsletter, you’ve already had a sneak peek at the finished broken concrete (“urbanite”) patio we installed in our vegetable garden. This sustainable approach of reusing broken concrete not only diverts waste from landfills but also creates a unique, cost-effective, and charming hardscape.
If you haven’t yet, be sure to sign up for our newsletter using the form at the top or bottom of this page! You’ll gain exclusive access to a treasure trove of free printables, along with insider tips and exciting updates that we share only with our subscribers.
Our garden boasts a truly glorious view, making it the perfect spot for quiet contemplation. During my initial planning for the vegetable garden layout, I envisioned adding a small seating area, thinking, “Why not enjoy this beauty from a different perspective?” Little did I know just how truly wonderful and indispensable it would become!
We retrieved our beloved gazebo furniture from our old house’s storage and invested in a new outdoor umbrella, as the old one finally gave up after years of faithful service (even after a refreshing paint job extended its life!). We managed to set it up just in time to celebrate Father’s Day with our son, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. I’ve since taken my tea and a good book out here countless times, finding immense joy in experiencing the garden not just as a place of work, but as a sanctuary for relaxation and reflection. I highly recommend considering a dedicated seating area in or near your active garden space if you have the room – it truly transforms the experience.
P.S. We’re currently working on a comprehensive tutorial detailing how we skillfully used broken concrete to create this beautiful patio, so definitely stay tuned for that! I’ll also be sharing other creative ways I’ve repurposed urbanite throughout the garden, demonstrating its versatility as a sustainable and budget-friendly material.
Essential New Preserving Cookbook
Just in time for the peak harvest and preserving season, I’m thrilled to introduce you to an exceptional new resource: The Ultimate Guide to Preserving Vegetables, penned by my talented friend, Angi Schneider from Schneider Peeps. This book is, without a doubt, one of the most comprehensive and beautifully organized preserving guides I’ve encountered.
Its subtitle, “canning, pickling, fermenting, dehydrating, and freezing your favorite fresh produce,” perfectly encapsulates its expansive scope. It truly lives up to its promise, covering a wide array of preservation methods for featured vegetables with remarkable depth and clarity. The book is thoughtfully divided into two main parts: the first provides foundational knowledge and step-by-step instructions for general preservation techniques, while the second dedicates extensive sections to preserving 19 popular vegetables, plus a dedicated chapter on herbs.
Under each vegetable, you’ll discover a variety of tailored recipes demonstrating how to preserve it using appropriate methods. What makes this book truly stand out are the wonderful and often unique recipes that cater to both novice and experienced preservers. It’s not just a practical guide; it’s also a beautiful book to hold and read, making the learning process even more enjoyable. This is another item I wholeheartedly recommend for anyone looking to embrace the art of food preservation! CLICK HERE to delve deeper into this incredible resource.
Charming & Affordable Farmhouse Laundry Light Fixture
As we continue the exciting, albeit sometimes daunting, process of outfitting our farmhouse with all-new lighting, every thoughtful and budget-friendly find is a victory. That’s why I’m excited to share the delightful farmhouse metal flush mount barn light I chose for our laundry room. Firstly, its simple, sweet design perfectly complements our farmhouse aesthetic, adding a touch of rustic charm without being overly ornate. Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, it cost less than $30! When you’re renovating and decorating an entire farmhouse, finding such quality and style at an incredibly affordable price point is a truly wonderful thing.
I discovered this gem on Beautiful Halo, a new-to-me online retailer that also offers clothing. While it is a Chinese site, meaning shipping times can be a bit longer, the significant savings (often less than half the price of comparable fixtures I was considering elsewhere) made it well worth the wait for me. It’s a fantastic example of how patience can pay off when sourcing unique and cost-effective elements for your home decor.
Grove Collaboration’s Plastic Neutral & Plastic-Free Toilet Paper
In a previous newsletter, I shared an exciting update about Grove Collaboration, a company I deeply admire for its commitment to sustainability. They recently announced a monumental achievement: becoming “plastic neutral.” This means that for every piece of plastic they sell, they actively fund the collection and recycling of an equivalent amount of plastic pollution. They stand as the only company currently achieving this incredible feat, setting a commendable standard for others to follow.
Beyond this impressive milestone, Grove has also made an even bolder pledge: to be 100% plastic-free by 2025. Isn’t that truly amazing? Imagine a future without all those plastic bottles of household essentials. I am genuinely excited to see the innovative solutions they develop to achieve this ambitious goal, and how it will inspire widespread change in the industry.
The pervasive issue of plastic waste has been a growing concern for me for quite some time. At the beginning of the year, I began actively planning practical ways to reduce plastic consumption in our own home. Initiatives like sourcing produce from Imperfect Foods have been incredibly helpful, as has experimenting with reusable linen produce bags and durable silicone ziplocks. For some inexplicable reason, the unnecessary plastic packaging around toilet paper rolls became a particular fixation for me, even before the widespread panic buying of March! So, when I discovered that Grove’s Seedling TP had transitioned from plastic wrap to a sturdy, recyclable cardboard box, I was eager to give it a try.
Online reviews for this product are notoriously mixed, with some raving about its softness while others find it scratchy. To provide an honest and balanced perspective, here’s my truthful breakdown of the pros and cons after personal use:
- Con: It doesn’t possess the luxurious softness we typically associate with premium toilet paper. Despite marketing claims of “ultra soft,” its texture is more akin to the paper you might find in commercial establishments like stores or airports.
- Pro: However, it is by no means scratchy or uncomfortable. It simply isn’t super plush. Crucially, it demonstrates excellent strength and integrity, preventing any dreaded “breakage” during use – a vital quality, if you catch my meaning!
- Pro: A significant environmental advantage is that the paper is made from renewable bamboo, not just recycled paper like many other brands. I believe this is precisely why it feels softer than typical recycled toilet paper, which often has a reputation for being quite coarse.
- Pro: The rolls are generously sized, meaning they last a considerable amount of time, offering added convenience and value.
- Pro: And, of course, the cardboard packaging is a game-changer for me! It makes so much practical and environmental sense. I sincerely hope this becomes an industry standard, inspiring other TP manufacturers to adopt plastic-free solutions.
So, would I purchase Grove Seedling TP again? Absolutely, without hesitation. I am more than willing to trade a slight reduction in softness for the substantial benefits of less plastic waste and the utilization of a renewable resource. It aligns perfectly with our family’s commitment to sustainable living. CLICK HERE to check it out for yourself and receive a free 5-piece gift set with your first purchase.
June Reads: A Curated Selection of Books & Audiobooks
In June, I delved into a total of 11 books, a mix of physical copies and audiobooks. I can’t stress enough how indispensable audiobooks have become for me; they are truly a gardener’s best friend, allowing me to “read” while tending to tasks. My love for reading continues to thrive, and I’m excited to share some of my favorite discoveries from the past month.
Savvy Audiobook Membership Tips for Audible
While I do borrow some audiobooks from the local library, I’ve also been a loyal member of Audible for years, and it’s a service I highly recommend. The primary advantage is that once you purchase a book, it remains permanently in your library, eliminating any return hassles or frustrating wait times. Here are a few ways I maximize my Audible membership and save money:
- Flexible Membership Tier: After enjoying a regular monthly membership (and its associated credit) for about a year following the free trial, I successfully downgraded to an “every-other-month credit” plan. This means my $14.94 credit effectively spreads out to about $7.50 per month, yet I still retain full access to Audible’s fantastic sales and complimentary Audible Originals. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits at half the cost. (A little secret: they don’t widely advertise this option, but you can request it through customer service.) Remember, any books you purchase are yours to keep forever, regardless of your membership status.
- Strategic Credit Usage with 2-for-1 Sales: I’ve learned to patiently save my credits specifically for Audible’s frequent 2-for-1 sales. These events typically occur every three to four months. While the selection isn’t their entire catalog, I almost always find at least one or two titles I’ve been wanting, effectively doubling the value of my credits.
- Audible Daily Deals: Subscribing to the Audible Daily Deal email is another excellent money-saving tactic. While many of the daily offerings might not align with my reading preferences, occasionally a true gem pops up. These deals are usually priced between $2.95 and $5.95, making them perfect impulse purchases that don’t warrant using a precious credit.
- Free Audible Originals: Though not directly a money-saver, the complimentary Audible Originals offered to members each month are a significant bonus. Some months, the selections might not pique my interest, but more often than not, I discover one or two captivating titles that I eagerly add to my library. In fact, two of the book reviews below feature free Audible Originals that I thoroughly enjoyed!
Plus, a lovely perk is that friends and family who know you’re an Audible member can easily gift you credits, as my thoughtful son did for my birthday this year!
If you’re intrigued and would like to experience the world of audiobooks, click this link to get a free 30-day trial which includes two audiobooks and two Audible Originals. The best part? Those four books are yours to keep, even if you decide not to continue the membership!
Here are reviews of the eight standout books I read in June:
Suffering is Never For Nothing, Elizabeth Elliot
This profound book, compiled from a series of talks Elizabeth Elliot gave and published posthumously, deeply resonated with me. I filled two entire pages of notes in my book notes journal, which is a testament to the powerful insights it contains. Its message feels incredibly timely, especially given the challenges we face today. Here are just a couple of the significant thoughts and quotes I captured:
– As Christians, our response to life’s circumstances should visibly differ from those around us. This difference should be marked by two key attributes:
Acceptance & Gratitude
Elliot clarifies that this refers to God’s gifts within a situation, not necessarily the specific suffering itself—a distinction that was profoundly important for me. She articulates this beautifully concerning her own experiences:
I don’t think I need to thank God for the cancer (that killed her second husband) or the murder (that killed her first), but I do need to thank God that in the midst of that very situation, the world was still in His hands.
There is, in fact, no redemptive work anywhere done without suffering.
Elisabeth Elliot
The depth of this message makes it a book I will undoubtedly revisit in the future. Highly recommended for spiritual reflection.
This Won’t End Well, Camille Pagan
I’ve frequently seen Camille Pagan’s books circulating, often categorized as enjoyable fiction with a romantic element. This particular novel fit that description, offering a light read filled with amusing characters and comical situations. It’s certainly a perfect choice for unwinding without too much mental effort. However, I found myself struggling to truly connect with the characters on a deeper level. The main character’s journey of “finding herself” often involved choices that frustrated me, and the ending felt notably rushed and somewhat underdeveloped. While it’s a relatively clean book for modern fiction (a definite plus!), making it suitable for a trip or a lazy afternoon in a hammock, it didn’t quite hit the mark for me personally.
Help My Unbelief: Why Doubt Is Not The Enemy of Faith, Barnabas Piper
My daughter initially borrowed this audiobook from the library, and after she finished, I eagerly picked it up. This book offers a remarkably down-to-earth perspective, and I deeply appreciated its central theme: that doubt and faith are not antithetical but can, in fact, coexist and even strengthen one another. Piper masterfully argues that questioning and wondering do not equate to a lack of faith; rather, the Bible itself is replete with examples of faithful individuals who grappled with doubt. Here’s a poignant quote that I’ve committed to memory:
‘I believe, help my unbelief’ should be the cry of every Christian everywhere, every day.
At no point in this life will we believe perfectly, so we will need this prayer until the day Jesus makes our souls whole, removes our sin, and gives us perfect belief upon his return.
Barnabas Piper
A truly encouraging and insightful read for anyone navigating their faith journey.
The Jane Austen Society, Natalie Jenner
Combining historical fiction with the timeless allure of Jane Austen, this book immediately piqued my interest. Set in the English village of Chawton around the time of WWII, a real place where Jane Austen spent her later years, the story explores the fictionalized origins of a real society and museum dedicated to her legacy. We are introduced to eight diverse individuals who, in the years leading up to the war, discover their shared love for Austen, eventually forming the society. The cast includes local villagers, a sophisticated Londoner, and an American actress, creating a rich tapestry of characters. I found the narrative engaging, balancing lighthearted moments with more profound themes, including a surprising twist toward the end. While the pacing was on the slower side, I don’t always require a fast-paced plot; this felt more like life unfolding organically.
However, the ending was a point of contention for me. It felt incredibly rushed, almost as if forced into a “happily ever after” conclusion. Furthermore, I must mention one particularly graphic scene set in Hollywood, where the actress is assaulted. While not central to the main storyline, and certainly not necessary for understanding the event, its explicit nature could be a trigger for some readers. I genuinely wish the author had omitted or handled it differently, as it felt out of place with the overall tone of the book. Aside from this, I recall no other objectionable content.
The Science of Sci-Fi, Erin MacDonald (Audible Original, from Great Courses)
My husband, Brian, and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this Audible Original during our car rides, a free monthly selection I downloaded. I was curious to explore the scientific accuracy of popular Sci-Fi television, movies, and literature – what they get right and where they take creative liberties. And it delivered! Dr. MacDonald, the professor, provided fascinating insights. We were genuinely surprised by how many concepts Sci-Fi has, in fact, accurately predicted or closely approximated. Conversely, she meticulously explained why certain iconic Sci-Fi elements, like Star Trek’s transporters, are likely to remain firmly in the realm of fiction. The detailed scientific explanation of what would be required for such technology to exist left us concluding, “Nope, not happening!” If you’re a fan of science fiction, this is an incredibly insightful and entertaining listen.
Food, A Cultural Culinary History, Ken Albala (Audible Original, from Great Courses)
You might find it hard to believe, but I was utterly captivated by over 18 hours of listening to the history of food! This Audible Original, presented as an actual Great Courses lecture series, was nothing short of fascinating. The professor, Ken Albala, is incredibly lively and engaging, clearly an expert in his field. While I anticipated learning about the culinary habits of different eras and regions, what I found most intriguing were the intricate “hows” and “whys” behind the evolution of certain foods and spices. The course beautifully intertwines food history with broader societal influences, demonstrating how wars, plagues, and political shifts profoundly shaped what people ate and the cultural significance attributed to various ingredients. I often listened to this while preparing our daily meals, which made for a wonderfully immersive and highly relevant experience!
Weakness Is The Way, J.I. Packer
This concise yet powerful book by J.I. Packer serves as a deep dive into 2 Corinthians, with its core theme rooted in the profound truth of 2 Cor. 2:10: “when I am weak, then I am strong.” Packer masterfully illustrates how this paradox applies directly to our lives as Christians. These quotes perfectly encapsulate his message:
The truth, however, is that in many respects, and certainly in spiritual matters, we are all weak and inadequate, and we need to face it.
Thus we may learn our need to depend on Christ, our Savior and Lord, at every turn of the road, [and] to practice that dependence as one of the constant habits of our heart…
J.I. Packer
A truly insightful and humbling read that encourages a deeper reliance on faith.
Evvie Drake Starts Over, Linda Holmes
I’ve noticed this book frequently mentioned across various platforms in recent months, so its popularity meant a nearly two-month wait from the library. It’s another mostly lighthearted contemporary read, focusing on two main characters working through personal issues. Overall, it’s an easy-to-digest story. However, I must admit, I was quite disappointed with this book. While it’s considered “closed door” (meaning intimate scenes are not explicitly described), a significant portion of the narrative seemed to build anticipation solely around when the main characters would finally become physically involved. And the ending? It was, in a word, “meh.” The “big” moment we’re supposedly meant to cheer for, after they decide to live together, felt incredibly anticlimactic and lacking in genuine commitment:
I mean, I’ll marry you, probably.
What kind of conclusion is that? This lukewarm sentiment followed a lengthy monologue where the male protagonist meticulously listed all the reasons he was happy in New York and she was happy in Maine, culminating in a hesitant, “But, let’s try anyway.” Is this the standard for commitment in modern storytelling? This felt like a cold splash of water, yet we were expected to celebrate their growth. Ultimately, this book will definitely not be making my “best-of” list! I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve read it – perhaps I’m missing something.
What We’re Watching: Entertainment Picks
TV & Movies:
Anjelah Johnson, Not Fancy (Netflix)
My husband, Brian, and I had never heard of Anjelah Johnson until we stumbled upon her name on a list of “comedians you could watch with your kids.” We immediately jumped at the opportunity, as we both appreciate humor that makes us laugh heartily without resorting to profanity or cringe-worthy content. You guys, she is absolutely hilarious! We found ourselves laughing out loud throughout her stand-up special and quickly sought out more of her older material on YouTube. Her facial expressions alone are enough to send you into fits of laughter. In these challenging times, a good, clean laugh is truly invaluable, so I wholeheartedly encourage you to check her out!
Lennox Hill Documentary (Netflix)
We watched just one episode of this compelling nine-part documentary series, and it’s exceptionally well-produced, offering an unflinching look at the daily realities faced by doctors and nurses in a hospital setting. While truly excellent, for us, it proved to be a little too intense and “real” given the current global climate. The raw depiction of medical challenges and emotional strain, though vital storytelling, hit a bit too close to home at this particular time. It’s a powerful watch, but perhaps for a different season.
Just Mercy (Amazon)
Starring Michael B. Jordan, this incredibly impactful movie tells the true story of lawyer Bryan Stevenson. Stevenson moves to the South to establish a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting individuals on death row who have been unfairly convicted, ensuring they receive just trials. The film powerfully highlights cases where racial profiling led to wrongful convictions, focusing particularly on one such pivotal case that ultimately led to an overturned verdict. This is not only a brilliantly acted movie but also one that conveys a profoundly important story about justice and systemic inequalities. As a supplemental viewing, we also watched a talk Bryan Stevenson gave at NY’s Redeemer Church a few years ago, based on the book that inspired the film. It was a superb addition, further reinforcing and expanding upon the compelling narrative presented in the movie.
I Still Believe (Amazon)
This inspiring film is based on the real-life experiences of Christian musician Jeremy Camp, before he rose to fame. The title itself is also the name of his debut song, which became a huge hit, penned after the tragic passing of his young wife from cancer. I’ve always found the song deeply inspiring and faith-building. The movie beautifully shares the background of this powerful story, depicting both the profound lows and soaring highs of his journey. It’s a moving testament to faith, love, and resilience in the face of immense sorrow.
Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga (Netflix)
This is a wonderfully silly and lighthearted movie starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams as two aspiring Icelandic singers who, against all odds, find their way to the grand stage of the real Eurovision Song Contest. For decades, Eurovision has been an annual international event renowned for its often eccentric and flamboyant performances. While it wasn’t quite as uproariously funny as I had anticipated from a Will Ferrell film, it certainly had its moments of genuine humor and charm. It’s a perfect pick for a relaxed evening when you’re simply looking for some cheerful, whimsical entertainment. 🙂
That concludes this edition of the Good Things List! I hope you found some inspiration for your home, garden, reading list, and next movie night. We love sharing these monthly discoveries with you.
If you’re eager to explore more of my favorite recommendations and finds, you can browse all previous Good Things Lists here. Your thoughts and recommendations are always welcome! Have you tried any of the items or watched any of the shows/movies mentioned? Or perhaps you have a gem you’d like to suggest? Please don’t hesitate to share your insights in the comments section below – we cherish your feedback and community engagement!
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission based on sales generated through them. Rest assured, this does not affect the price you pay. For a comprehensive understanding of my disclosure and advertising policies, please click here.
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