Tag: fall

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Simple Book Page Chain Garland

I was looking for something a little different for my mantle this fall, but I also wanted it to be neutral enough to use across multiple seasons. I decided on a simple chain garland like we used to make in elementary school, only instead of construction paper, I used pages I tore from an old book I purchased at the thrift store for exactly this kind of purpose. I put in a movie for my daughter and me to watch and before it was finished I had completed two DIY book page chain garlands for my fireplace mantle that I can use year-round.

To make the chain garland I used supplies I already had in my crafting stash. My 12″ Fiskars Paper Trimmer that I’ve had for close to 10 years and will forever NOT ever be without! Some Tombow glue, though any good adhesive would probably work, and any old book that won’t bother you to tear up. If I remember correctly, I paid $1.00 for a set of three of these books at the local second-hand store. I think this one is about vampires or such–perfect for destroying for craft projects! I don’t encourage anyone to look too closely a the pages as you never know what’s written on them! Luckily, we are slicing these up so it doesn’t really matter.

I started by simply ripping out a whole bunch of pages from the book. I didn’t really pay attention to how many and then began slicing them (I stacked about 5 pages at a time) into 1″ strips. I used the whole height of the book page because it made a nice size loop for the chain. A small paperback book may not be quite tall enough to make a loop as big around as the one I made for the main chain.

I wasn’t sure how many links I would need since I’m not the type to measure so I just kept cutting and cutting. I knew it would be easy to throw together a few more links or remove links if needed. Once I had a good stack of strips cut for the garland I decided to make a second chain with thinner and smaller circles that I could layer with the first chain. Two garlands are always more interesting than just one in my book! So this time I cut the height of my book page down a bit (these are around 4″ tall) before I began slicing it into strips.

After you have a nice pile of whatever size and variety of strips that you want it’s time to start assembling the chain that will make the garland. Do you remember how to do it? Start by gluing one strip of paper into a closed loop, then slide a new strip through the center of the original, completed ring and then glue that strip shut to create a link. Keep adding new strips through each newly completed loop to create more links. Does this bring back memories of kindergarten?

Pay attention to where you are adding the new strip, especially as your chain gets longer. I found a few places that I had added two links to one loop. But that’s not a big deal–just tear off the second link and throw it away! Easy peasy!

Once you think your chain is the length you want, repeat all the steps again to make the second chain. I knew I wanted the smaller garland to drape a few more times across the mantle so I made it longer than the larger loop chain.

I love how the book page garland looks on my fall mantle. I may make a few more garlands for use on the greenery on my staircase this Christmas. I added some twinkle lights intertwined through the loops and it’s so festive and sparkly! I may even add a little glitter to help reflect more light if I make another set.

This DIY book page garland was inexpensive, easy, and fast–three of my favorite things when it comes to crafts! You could easily do this with the help of your children. This simple book page garland would be beautiful around a Christmas tree, on a stairwell, draped across a mirror, or even across some display towels on a towel bar. Get creative!

We hope you enjoy this idea and would love to see your garlands if you decide to make them. Share them on your social media and tag us @thesweetteasisters on Instagram.

XOXO,
Doe

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Finding Moments of Rest for a Peaceful Fall

Do you find that once October hits life begins to feel a bit frantic?  Schedules fill up and to-do lists run long. Home and family life can quickly begin to turn a little chaotic and feelings of overwhelm can start creeping in.  For someone who loves people but loves to be home even more, that gets old really fast. So this year, for the month of November, The Sweet Tea Sisters are going to try to engage in one or two simple things each week that will encourage us to slow down just a bit and enjoy a sweet moment of rest here and there.

Here’s a list of ten things that can be done anytime during the next five weeks–whenever it fits the schedule–but no pressure allowed! The goal here is not to add extra work or expense to the budget, but to find a few simple things that, with minimal effort, cost or prep work, will hopefully energize our spirit and bring moments of rest in the chaos. There is no set time frame for this–there isn’t a particular day of the week or even a particular week to do any of the activities.  If it makes your life easier you could schedule some, while others you may decide on at the last minute.  You don’t even need to do all ten–five is the goal, but you know the SweetTea Sisters like to have OPTIONS and sometimes we might feel like doing a little extra!

Any of these things can be done by yourself, with your family, or with a group of friends.  Mix it up!  Welcome to The Sweet Tea Sisters 5 in 5 Restful Fall Challenge, and we’d love to have you join us!

Here’s what’s on our list and some thoughts about each one.

  1. Eat dinner by candlelight
    This does not mean you need to make a fancy dinner or set the table with cloth napkins and wine goblets–but you certainly could if that’s what will bring you joy without stress!  There’s a good chance we will dish up our food in the kitchen and take our plates to the dining room table, or maybe even our living room coffee table! But there’s just something about candlelight that makes even the most humble thing feel special and relaxing about candlelight. In fact this sounds like the perfect way to elevate a pizza and paper plate evening! 
  2. Send someone a card or letter of encouragement
    Stopping to take the time to think about and then tell someone how grateful you are for someone is usually a sure-fire way to put yourself in a better frame of mind (and heart).  Instead of focusing on all the chaos and to-do lists swirling around, take a moment to be thankful for the blessing of the people God has placed in your life. 
  3. Movie Night
    We love a good movie and sometimes a mid-week movie with a big bowl of popcorn sounds delightful! A pile of blankets and pillows, your favorite pajamas, and a cup of hot cocoa with whipped cream and sprinkles are a great way to enjoy 2 hours.
  4. Go to bed early
    Pull out a sleep mask, diffuse a little essential oils and hit the hay 30-45 minutes earlier than usual with the mindset to do a little relaxing breathing while thanking God for some of the things you’re thankful for as you fall asleep.  
  5. Buy a bouquet of flowers
    Fresh flowers are a great way to lift drooping spirits.  Pick up a bunch or two from your local grocery and divide them into a few smaller arrangements to place all around your home to bring spots of life and color when the world outside is getting darker and colder earlier and earlier.  If you have a florist you love and it fits your budget you can get a great bouquet from there as well. (If you want to be even more extra, grab a extra bouquet and share it with a friend!) 
  6. Take a leisurely bath or shower
    When it’s chilly outside, warm up with water! Use all the pretty smelling lotions and potions, light a few candles, play some soothing music and soak up the moisture until you feel sufficiently pruney. (Shaving your legs is an option, not a necessity!) 
  7. Schedule coffee or tea with a friend
    In person or over a video call, in a home or at a cafe, just schedule some time for an uninterrupted heart to heart chat with a dear friend. Make sure to include some belly laughs if at all possible! 
  8. Game Night
    Invite a few people to get together to play a few games or assemble a puzzle.  No need to make a big meal–a potluck hot cocoa bar is fun and simple!
  9. Read
    Put the phone away, turn off the TV, slip into your favorite cozies, and spend a little time reading whatever you love…magazines, scientific journals, biographies, chick-lit, novels, gossip rags…whatever will give your brain a little break!
  10. Eat dessert
    Bake it, pick it up at the grocery, or get it from your favorite bakery, but indulge in your favorite dessert.  Slow down and really enjoy every bite! 

None of these things are hard, magical, or even unusual, but when done with intention, a thankful heart, and a mind to enjoy them fully, they might bring some much needed rest into the middle of what can quickly become a season long to-do list.

Do you need to find a few minutes of rest this season?  Follow us on Instagram, check out our stories throughout the month of November to follow along, and then join us in this challenge! Use our  list or make your own. Either way, we’d love to hear what you do– tag @thesweetteasisters and use #STS5in5restfulfallchallenge to share your peaceful moments on Instagram.

XOXO,

Shan and Doe

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Simple Centerpieces for Fall Two Ways

I love changing the decor in my home according to whatever season we are in. I really just do three 3 big changes a year; fall, Christmas/winter, and spring/summer. I don’t do anything for say, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, or St. Patrick’s Day.

Even though I enjoy decorating, I always struggle with centerpieces for my dining table or tabletops. Lately, I’ve been using a 3-tier tray for both the dining table and the table in our living room. But I have been wanting to change it up with something different and fun, but most importantly, QUICK!

I saw a picture online of a pretty fall display built on a long charcuterie board and I knew this was what I wanted to try!  I didn’t have a board like that at home and so the search began (shopping is the best part, isn’t it?!) I found what I was looking for at Target from their Magnolia line.  It’s 40’ long and fits the dining room table perfectly.

Next, it was time to gather my supplies: a garland of greenery, one medium-sized pumpkin, a few smaller pumpkins, a couple of small candles, and a pair of wire cutters. (If you don’t own a pair of wire cutters, get a pair ASAP!  You’ll thank me when you realize how much easier it is to trim faux greenery!))

To create the centerpiece start with the bottom layer of greenery.  I laid the leaf garland down the center of the board and using the wire cutters I trimmed it to just a bit longer than my board so there would be enough to wind in and out of the other items I planned to add. Then I placed the larger pumpkin in the center and a jar candle on each end. 

All I had to do after that was fill in the spaces with the smaller pumpkins, tucking the leaf garland in and around everything, until the board was as full as I wanted and I liked the way it looked! 

Presto, a centerpiece!

My sister, Doe, thought a smaller board would be cool for the table in my living room, but I didn’t have one and didn’t want to go buy one.  So my husband came to the rescue.

He had a piece of 1X8 out in his shop leftover from another project that was just shy of 24”. He milled the edges so that they were slightly rounded, sanded them, and I stained it. Once it was dry we added handles. 

This was a fast project and I was thrilled with how it turned out. I wouldn’t put food directly on it, but it’s perfect for decorating. 

I gathered a new group of supplies: some faux fall flowers I had purchased on sale at JoAnn’s, a variety of jars and vases in different sizes, some battery-operated votive candles and holders, and more pumpkins. 

This time I wanted flowers to be in the center of the tray so I chose a jar that was a good height for the scale of the board, with a broader neck opening. The clear glass of the jar didn’t offer much impact on the tray, but I didn’t want to go buy a different vase. I remembered I had a can of gold marbling spray paint leftover from another project so I simply used that to spray paint the jar–it was just the thing it needed to add a little visual weight!  

I added the flowers to the jar, trimming and arranging them so that they would just sit on the rim of the vase, using only enough stems to fill the opening but not needing to squish them in. 

Next, I added a couple of pumpkins I found on sale at Hobby Lobby and a few small gourds from the grocery store.  My mom always said that when it comes to decorating, a good rule of thumb is: work in odd numbers and keep things in the shape of a pyramid.  So, I kept the larger pumpkin closer to the center and the smaller gourds spread out toward the edges. As a last touch, I included two LED, battery-operated candles in small glass votive holders. 

The completed board looked great on the table, but it still needed a little something to make it pop. I had just the thing! A piece of flannel in yellow and cream.  The flannel layer works like the mat inside a framed picture creating movement and layers for our eyes to follow. 

I’m so happy with the simple little boards that I have plans to make more of them in various sizes!  If I decide to use them for food I’ll simply lay down a piece of parchment paper first. 

You could easily recreate these centerpieces yourself using whatever you have at home. If you don’t want to buy or make a board, a  tray, mirror, or even a picture frame would all work as your base layer.  Look around your house and see what things you could gather together to display on top. If you (or your husband) are handy with tools, whip up a quick board yourself!

If this post inspires you to put together a centerpiece for your table we’d love to see it!  Post it to your Instagram and tag us.

Happy decorating!

XOXO,

Shan

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Three Bible Study Resources for Fall

“Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching, and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” Colossians 3:16

September and the onset of fall always means “fresh start” to me, even more so than January 1. That being the case we thought this was the perfect time to tell you about three bible study resources for fall!

What other time of year screams, “We’re starting new!!” like fall? I think it’s all the back to school excitement!  New backpacks, notebooks, pencils, crayons, markers, folders, and of course new clothes and shoes! Even though my children are grown and no longer need those things, I still look forward to picking up some of those things for myself this time of year. A few new notebooks, maybe some markers and always, always a new bible study!

These are some of the wonderful Bible Studies that we have done this past year, are currently doing, and have on our list to do next!

First: Jen Wilkin has some great studies available online that you can do for FREE–including the workbook and either audio or video of her lectures.  We have done her studies on James, 1st Peter and are currently working our way through Matthew Part 1 and Part 2. We have also read her book Women of the Word that is an excellent resource for learning to study the bible on your own.

Jen Wilkin studies are what I would consider to be “in-depth studies”. They cover the entire book, not just a few chapters. Jen stresses comprehension, interpretation and application so you will be reading the entire text repeatedly, highlighting, annotating, looking up definitions, paying attention to context and paraphrasing verses, just to name a few things. 

While these studies do require some time and attention, they are powerful and worth your time and effort, I guarantee you will not be the same after doing one of her studies.

Second: The Daily Grace & Co. has some really great SHORT, affordable bible studies–many are just $5 during their sales, which they have often! While the studies I’ve purchased have not required a lot of homework they do employ the same study techniques as the Jen Wilkin studies and I felt they had some really good questions on the daily work.  I did their Habakkuk study earlier this year and really enjoyed it. I just purchased The Lord’s Prayer study and I’m looking forward to doing it soon! They also have a devotional book called New Every Morning that I’m loving! I got it on one of the $5 sales! 

Variety of studies from The Daily Grace & Co.

Third: Now, this last recommendation is not what I would call a traditional bible “study”. Rather, they are lectures that you could use alongside your bible reading. 

Kristi McLelland is a speaker and professor at Williamson College in Tennessee and serves as a biblical culturalit. Her studies are found through New Lens Biblical Studies. The classes don’t really require any homework other than reading whichever book of the bible she’ll be discussing and listening to the lecture. I took a copious notes!  Both Dori and I couldn’t believe how much we learned! Kristi will help you learn to look at scripture with a Middle Eastern lens in addition to a Western lens.  These studies are an investment–one that we highly recommend.

We started with the Israel study last year which is an overview of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, looking at the history of the Jewish people and how to feast on the Word. The cost is $75

Next, we did the Italy study  which is about the first century church in the book of Acts. Again, you just need to be reading the scripture. It adds so much more to your understanding and appreciation of scripture when you know the context and culture of the people writing and reading the passages! The cost is $45

Both of these studies would be good for seasoned readers who maybe have never read the bible from beginning to end – straight through, but we would definitely recommend them for those who are new to bible reading and/or study. They are a great way to grasp the whole story of the bible.

There are additional resources that she recommends as aides. We purchased a couple to use alongside our other studies but they are not necessary to understanding the lectures.

Even though these classes are a bit pricey they are worth every penny and I have gone back over my notes several times already as I’ve been reading through the Bible this year and plan to make watching the videos a yearly event!

Just recently we did her Ezer Kenegdo – this is just a short 1.5 hour lecture on the first two words God speaks about women. It was so good. The cost for that is $19

We have also her Jesus & Women study . This 7 session study is a thoughtful look at several of Jesus’ interactions with women in the bible. It will challenge and maybe even change the way you’ve looked at these stories! This study is available through Lifeway.com

Do you already have plans for a fall bible study? Do you prefer to study alone or in a group? My sister and I have been doing long distance studies together via FaceTiime for the last year and a half, and they have been wonderful, but I definitely miss getting together with a group of women! Whether alone or with a group of friends, one of the above studies might be the perfect fit for your fall bible study needs! 

We’d love to hear what your plans are – feel free to leave a comment below letting us know what you’ll be doing!  Also, include any study tools,  books, website etc… that you’ve found helpful! We’re working on a list of our favorites to share soon!

Blessings and XOXO,

Shan

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25 Ideas to Add to Your Fall Bucket List

Sometimes we forget that hospitality begins at home with the people closest to us. Fall is creeping up on us and while many places may not be as accessible as we are used to there are still LOTS of ways we can make this season special. We’ve made a list of 25 simple things you can do to wow your family as the weather cools off.  

We’ve even put them into a cute Fall Bucket List for you to print and mark off as you go.  As you check off your adventures, be sure to take some photos.  You’ll want to remember this season for sure!  Be sure to share your favorite photos to Instagram and tag thesweetteasisters in your post.  We can’t wait to join in the fun!

Make a thankful-for list

There is always something to be grateful for no matter what the circumstances we may find ourselves in. Why not take a few moments and jot down just a couple of the things that come to mind.

Jump in a pile of leaves

Rake them up in your back yard or head to a park and pile them up there! This is a great activity to do with the kids and the perfect opportunity to take some fun fall pictures.

Make caramel apples

When was last time you sunk your teeth into a sticky, yummy, caramel apple? Make some with your kids or grandkids and be sure and let us know how they turn out!

Go for a scenic drive

Take the back roads and enjoy the beautiful fall colors in your area.

Make chili and cornbread

Whether it’s canned or from scratch, serving your favorite chili paired with some delicious hot out of the oven cornbread will make for a fun family meal.

Buy a new fall scented candle or make your own

There are so many delightful candles out these days, you’re sure to find just the right one for your home. If you’re feeling crafty you could even make your own! Bonus points if you drop one off on a friend’s doorstep to brighten their day!

Volunteer at a soup kitchen

Is there a soup kitchen in your area where you and your family can serve? If not, consider making a donation to your local food pantry. 

Try a new soup recipe

Fall is the perfect time to try out a new soup, if you enjoy baking maybe try making homemade bread to go with it!

Plant bulbs for next spring

Take a few minutes to plant those bulbs now and you will be able to enjoy some lovely spring blooms later!

Roast marshmallow over a campfire

Can anyone resist roasting a marshmallow over a roaring campfire? Step things up a notch and make your favorite S’mores recipe!

Buy matching cozy socks for your whole family

A new pair of cozy socks will keep your toes toasty! Or do a sock swap with your best girlfriends as a fun way to welcome in fall!

Have a family game night

Try out a new game or maybe a family favorite like Charades, Old Maid, or Monopoly! Don’t forget some fun snacks!

Bundle up for a picnic in the park

Get your warm sweaters and boots on, grab a big blanket, pack up a lunch, and head to your favorite park! Enjoy the changing colors and brisk fall air!

Make your favorite quick bread

Have a recipe you’ve been wanting to try? Maybe Pumpkin, Zucchini, or Applesauce? This is the perfect opportunity! 

Parking lot tailgate party

Grab some friends, pack up your lunch or dinner, lawn chairs, tables, and meet up in a local park or store parking lot for some tailgating. Just because we have to physically distance doesn’t mean we can’t be social! 

Make apple crisp and have a movie night

Enjoy your favorite Apple Crisp recipe or search the web for a new one, settle down with a cozy blanket, and watch an old black and white movie. Charades, Arsenic and Old Lace, and Rear Window are all wonderful old movies. 

Help a neighbor rake their leaves

Grab your rake or leaf blower and help your neighbor clear their yard of leaves. Blow or rake them into a pile and JUMP in!

Hang a fall wreath for your front door

Pinterest has lots of great DIY wreaths you can try, but if crafting isn’t your style check out a local hobby store. Be sure to take a picture to share on social media.  Be sure to tag us so we can see!

Learn how to knit

Fall is the perfect time to learn something new and who wouldn’t love a handmade scarf just as the weather gets cooler.

Have a fall photoshoot

Go with a professional or snap some with your phone and a tripod. Check out Pinterest for some fun photo booth prop ideas! 

Make a scarf out of an old sweater

Do you have some old sweaters lying around? This would be a great way to upcycle them. YouTube has some great tutorials for this!

Put together a fall puzzle

Puzzles are a fun way to get the whole family involved in an activity. Walmart and Target have a variety of puzzles for all different skill levels, or Amazon can deliver one right to your door!

Read a book by the fire

Curl up with a nice warm blanket and a book by your favorite author and enjoy some much-needed downtime. Make it a family event and do a chapter book read-aloud all month.

Go for a fall hike and collect leaves

Take to the local trails and collect some of the falling leaves for a lovely fall centerpiece.

Have an outdoor movie night

Invite a few friends over for a physically-distanced, outdoor movie night. Check out some of the ideas on Pinterest to make this happen in your backyard!

Don’t forget your FREE printable Bucket List here.

XOXO,

Shan & Doe