In this Sunday Funday Series, I’ll share little tidbits and finds from my week that brought a smile to my face, in the hope that they’ll do the same to you!
1. Target Dollar Aisle
I breezed through the superstore’s sliding doors on Wednesday with a mission: buy a business card holder. And of course… My focus failed as soon as I glanced at Target’s dollar section. So many colorful and festive trinkets for fall! Maple leaf beads, painted metallic pails, lined wicker baskets… I restrained myself and only dropped 4 things into my cart: (1) a pie server {been on my wish list for ages!}, (2) a set of jumbo silicone muffin cups {for my next cookbook!}, (3) children’s pumpkin-themed flatware {I’m still a kid at heart!}, and (4) a leaf-embroidered hand towel {for the fridge door handle}. All for $4! (And no, I never found that business card holder… Target doesn’t actually stock them!)
2. Soft Salted Pretzels
Despite the painful defeat of my Oakland A’s in Game 5 of the ALDS, I’m still looking forward to watching the World Series. And what goes better with baseball than hot dogs soft salted pretzels? They’re fairly simple to make (here’s my recipe!), and I usually nibble on mine with some Dijon mustard for dipping on the side.
3. “100 Things I Want to Teach My Daughter”
In this poignant post by Lisa-Jo Baker, she shares her list of wisdom with the rest of the world. Some bits make you smile (“Ice cream is a love language.”), some make you sigh (“You can’t control what others think of you. Let it go.”), but every one of them will touch your heart.
4. Food and Prop Styling for Food Bloggers
This post by Peter of Souvlaki for the Soul is worth skimming for his stunning photographs alone! Like the shot above, many are examples of well-composed chaos (a technique I’d like to try, if I ever acquire enough props!) while others stand out for their simplicity. My favorite tip from Peter? “Sometimes in this crazy, mad world it’s good to take a step back and have a little giggle.”
5. Broccoli Pizza Crust
This vibrant shot above by Josephine of A Tasty Love Story left my stomach rumbling and my fingers scrolling as fast as they could down the page for her recipe. Although I’ve read about cauliflower pizza crusts before, broccoli was a new one. Since it’s one of the two vegetables my guy willingly consumes, I’m filing this away in my “Recipes to Try” folder!
6. Pumpkin & Jack-O-Lantern Magnets
If you’d rather not hand your kids (or yourself!) a sharp object for carving googley eyes and a crooked mouth on a pumpkin—or if you simply want to spruce up your kitchen with some festive fall decorations—this craft by Emily of The Benson Street is perfect for you! In a matter of minutes, you’ll be pinning these adorable magnets to your fridge. Time to stop by Michaels for hot glue and glass beads!
7. Spinach Monster Ice Cream
Sticking with the Halloween theme, how creative are these ice cream cones by Caroline of Chocolate & Carrots? Her recipe only uses 4 ingredients and NO ice cream maker! I’m green with envy over her sweet and healthy treat!
8. Mastercard Pirate Commercial
I dressed up as a pirate for Halloween in 8th grade, so my heart smiled at this commercial. At least I never challenged anyone else to a duel—I’m such a ’fraidy cat!
9. Mini Candy Bar Turnovers
Too tempted by the big bags of Halloween candy you stocked up on in September? I guarantee my recipe will curb your cravings—even if you do sneak a piece or two while they bake! (I nibbled on at least three… I have NO self-control with chocolate!)
10. Inspirational Quote
A constant chatter and slew of questions fills my mind throughout the day. Why is the house such a mess? How do bloggers write so much? Why can’t I find more props to make my photos pop? Why don’t my Pins go viral? Why doesn’t my blog get more traffic? Then I read this quote. You create your own opportunities. So over the next 7 days, I am taking responsibility, seizing the day, and working on building my own path to success.
meg says...
I love that you’ve started doing these round-ups – thanks for the fun links! I adore the “100 things to teach my daughter.”
Amy says...
My pleasure Meg! It forces me to think about something other than food, so I’m happy to put them together. 🙂 I agree, the “100 Things” post was one of my favorites that I’ve read in a long time. Even though I don’t have any children of my own, I could still use the advice myself!
Brittany says...
Love this post, so much fall and happy vibes coming right to me! Your blog is so adorable and definitely one of my favorites. When we hang out (because this will happen) you must teach me how to make my blog look different from all the rest! 🙂
Amy says...
Aww Brittany, your sweet compliments mean the world to me. Thank you so much! 🙂 You blog already stands out for your witty and poignant writing. You have one of the most refreshing points of view and styles; it’s why you always have so many comments on all of your posts! And YES we are going to hang out — it’s just a matter of finding a date!
Emily @ The Benson Street says...
Thanks for featuring my Pumpkin Magnets!
Amy says...
You’re welcome Emily! They are such a cute idea, and they’re something even I, a craft-challenged girl, could handle. (As long as I don’t burn myself with hot glue.) You’re so creative, and I’m sure you have lots more fun projects coming!