The Curated Life No. 50

Discover simple home decor ideas, style tips, and seasonal inspiration through The Curated Life…your guide to living beautifully every day.

August is still very much a summer month, even as thoughts begin to turn toward the season ahead. The heat may feel tiring, and the watering may seem endless, but cooler days will arrive soon enough. For now, enjoy the long evenings, fresh garden flowers, seasonal recipes, and every simple pleasure this last full month of summer has to offer.

modern farmhouse foyer decorated for early fall watercolor

1.) A Quiet REturn

I just spent a week with my family, and by the time you read this, the house will be quiet again. Everyone will have come and gone, and I am somewhere between missing them and being grateful for the calm. There is a particular stillness in a house the day after company leaves, and I used to rush to fill it. In the beginning, after those first few visits, I found it hard to return to my normal days. That has gradually lifted. Now I try to sit with the silence for a while and let the house become familiar again. I still miss everyone when they leave, but I have gotten better at returning to the life that is here.

As the house settles back into its usual rhythm, I’m turning my attention to the season ahead. I want to move into it calmly and with care, making thoughtful changes as the days begin to shift. There will be plenty to share in the weeks ahead, and I hope you’ll be here as I make that gentle turn toward fall.

fall kitchen decorating ideas scented soaps by sink — Mrs. Meyer’s Gingerbread Set
Mrs. Meyer’s Acorn Spice Set

This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure statement.

“…the chief beauty about the constant supply of time is that you cannot waste it in advance. The next year, the next day, the next hour are lying ready for you, as perfect, as unspoilt, as if you had never wasted or misapplied a single moment in all your career. Which fact is very gratifying and reassuring. You can turn over a new leaf every hour if you choose.” ~Arnold Bennett

fall printable gift tag on mason jar of flowers — Free Fall Printables

3.) 50 Editions

This is the 50th edition of The Curated Life, and reaching this little milestone means a great deal to me. I have been able to show up here almost every week, even when it was not always easy, and I am so grateful for the friendship and support you have given me along the way. As a small thank you, I’m giving away two $50 electronic gift cards, with each winner choosing from Amazon, Target, Walmart, or Pottery Barn. To enter, simply leave a very short comment below. I will pick the winners on Tuesday, August 18th.

honeycrisp apples on round wood board and blue and white towels a few green leaves

4.) Gather & Savor

Today I’m sharing a little collection of apple recipes that feels just right as summer begins to turn toward fall. There are simple breads and muffins for baking, fresh salads that still fit the season, an easy mocktail, and even a quick sandwich recipe that’s perfect for lunch or a light supper. Apples are one of those ingredients that work beautifully in so many ways, and this roundup is a good place to begin when you’re ready to bring that first hint of autumn into the kitchen.

sunflower and hydrangea arrangement on coffee table with tray

5.) THINGS WORTH MENTIONING

What You Might Have Missed: last weekend, I brought back an updated hydrangea and sunflower arrangement that is easy to put together and perfect for this time of year. I also introduced a brand new zucchini recipe collection, filled with longtime family favorites along with two new side dishes that are simple, fresh, and very doable.
Coming this weekend: this weekend is all about easing into fall in a simple, thoughtful way. On Saturday, I’m sharing a look back at last year’s fall front porch decor, with ideas that are easy to use as a starting point for your own home. Then on Sunday, I’ll be sending my updated fall collection of ideas. I’ve spent time refining and editing, so it includes only the very best inspiration, and it’s now much easier to navigate when you’re ready to begin planning.
What I’m Watching: there is a new series on Netflix that tells the story of the 1988 terrorist bombing over Lockerbie, Scotland. It’s very well done and focuses on real people. On Britbox, I’ve enjoyed Gone, A Woman of Substance, and The Other Bennet Sister. (I’ve watched The Other Bennet Sister three times and love it more with each viewing.)
Catching Up: I have let myself get a little behind on answering emails and questions left in the comments, and I’m working hard to catch up. If you asked me something and I missed it, please send an email to ann@onsuttonplace.com. I’m trying to be better organized and stay on top of things, but every now and then, something slips through. I’m far from perfect, and always trying to do a little better.