Surprise YouTube TV $10 promo and camping savings

While exploring YouTube TV settings, I found a hidden $10 off promotion for six months, saving $60. Staying connected with news enhances my outdoor adventure, proving balance between technology and nature.

Declutter Your Shelves and Get Paid: I Did

My Experience with the ThriftBooks BuyBack App! Do you have stacks of books gathering dust? I know I did! As a huge book lover, it can be hard to part with a beloved novel, but sometimes you just need to make space. That’s where the ThriftBooks BuyBack App comes in—it’s been a game-changer for clearing…

October Catch-Up: Rain, Work, and Weekend Projects

After weeks of dry skies, we finally got a much-needed inch of rain last night—the first since September 23rd. The ground soaked it up like a sponge, and I think we all breathed a little sigh of relief. Work has been a bit of a roller coaster lately. With all the civilian staff on furlough…

Have you discovered SoFi Checking and Savings?

Hi! 👋 Use my link to sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with a deposit of $50 and you’ll get a $25 bonus. Plus, when you set up eligible direct deposit, you can earn up to $300 and score a 0.70% APY Boost on their Savings APY. You’ll earn a base APY…

Pineapple Goodness

Pineapple goodness right from my backyard.   I sprouted the top several years ago, and it finally gave a little something back.   It was delicious too!

Autumn is here

As outdoor temperatures cool to a comfortable 78°F, fall cleanup begins at camp after a hot, dry summer. Mowing, clearing trees for firewood, and preparing for the camping season are priorities. A new battery-powered fuel can simplifies refueling the mower. A heavy-duty trailer is next for easier transport of materials.

Terrarium: The old fence line

A quick terrarium for two plants, creeping fig and strawberry begonia, sourced from the Biltmore Estate nursery in 2014. The jar, initially intended for coffee storage, was modified with a black lid. Currently, the moss is struggling due to drought but is expected to recover with humidity.

Staying Safe and Hydrated When Camping in Hot Weather

There’s nothing quite like hitting the trails or a campground, pitching a tent, and soaking in the great outdoors. But while camping can be an absolute blast, it’s crucial to stay safe and hydrated, especially when the weather heats up like it does for us here in central Alabama. Being outdoors is fun but when…

Pumpkin Spice: A Taste of Fall

Pumpkin spice is a beloved autumn flavor in America, evoking nostalgic feelings with its spicy warmth. It has become a cultural phenomenon, appearing in various food and drink items, and signals the start of fall festivities.

Enjoying Nature

I am sharing a few photos that I took this week. Take time to relax and enjoy the outdoors.   The cooler temperatures are peeking through the heat of summer here in Alabama.  Cooler nights with lower humidity mark the coming possibility for more camping!  Take time. Wear sunscreen. Enjoy nature.

Luna Moth – One of the Largest

Actias luna – one of the largest moths in North America with a wingspan up to 7 inches. With a very short lifespan of only a week or so its always exciting to encounter these moths. This moth looks to be a male which can be distinguished by its feathery antennae. He uses the antennae…

Labor Day in the United States

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated on the first Monday in September. The holiday purely commemorates the labor movement and the achievements of American workers. It is one of the original ten federal holidays that were established in the early 20th century. The concept for Labor Day was…

Creepy Cordyceps Infected Moth

Yesterday, after a storm that dropped 3 inches of rain, we hiked through our forest to assess flooding and discovered a Cordyceps fungus infecting a moth, which we left undisturbed.

☀️ Sunscreen Shouldn’t Be Optional

The sun’s UV rays significantly increase the risk of skin damage and cancer, necessitating daily sunscreen use and protective clothing. Regular skin checks are vital for early detection of issues. The author’s personal battle with skin cancer serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of skin protection. Protect your skin; it’s essential.

Craft Meets Flavor

The Portable Spice Kit with Forest Orange Lining is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who value flavor and style. It features a sleek metal tin lined with vibrant felt, five glass vials for seasonings, and a secure band for notes. Handmade and durable, it enhances culinary experiences on the go.

Stay Safe Outdoors This Storm Season

As hurricane season and severe weather increase, a NOAA Weather Radio is essential for outdoor safety. It provides real-time alerts in remote areas when cell service fails. With multiple charging options, these radios keep you informed, helping you seek shelter and avoid dangerous conditions. Investing in one enhances your safety during outdoor activities.

Aggravation: My Favorite Board Game from Childhood

Still Aggravated After All These Years My favorite board game growing up—and still today—is Aggravation. It’s been ages since I last played. I’m thinking this weekend is the perfect time to dust it off for a round or two. I found my childhood game tucked away at the top of the linen closet, quietly waiting….

🥬 Easy Homemade Sauerkraut Recipe – Fermented Goodness in a Jar

If you’ve ever wanted to try fermenting at home, this easy sauerkraut recipe is the perfect place to start. With just two ingredients—cabbage and salt—you can create a probiotic-rich, tangy condiment that’s great for gut health and packed with flavor. 🌿 Why Make Your Own Sauerkraut? 📝 Ingredients Optional Add-ins: 🥣 Instructions 🍽️ How to…

When a Fly Dresses Like a Bee

Caught this funky little insect hanging out on one of my tomato plants today—turns out it’s a Tiger Bee Fly. Looks like a bee, acts like a fly, and has a wild backstory. Nature’s full of surprises.

Light Through the Alder Grove — July 4th

There’s something sacred about the quiet hush of early morning—when the world hasn’t quite woken up, leaf blowers are quiet, and the sun light filters softly through the trees like a quiet promise. This morning, on the Fourth of July, I stepped outside with a cup of iced coffee in hand. Even in the early…

Silent Sunday

I took these photos at work. When these magnolias are in bloom I smell them each morning walking down the sidewalk.

Finding Balance and Joy

The concept of “having it all” is explored as a balance between freedom, contentment, and gratitude rather than material wealth. The author emphasizes re-framing thoughts about finances and prioritizing well-being, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from creating a fulfilling life aligned with personal values and enjoying simple moments in nature.