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.

the curated life logo for blog august

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.

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2.) Words Worth Sharing

“…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

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. Many, many thanks.

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.
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399 Comments

  1. Always enjoy your posts. Thank you for all the hard work you do on each and every one.

  2. Congratulations on reaching this milestone. I enjoy reading The Curated Life. Such a lovely, gentle way to start my Wednesdays…Thank you!

  3. Cindy Vojanec says:

    Congratulations on your 50th edition! I always look forward to your blog as it makes me feel calm. I adore the pictures of yourself that you post. I look forward to reading the next 50!

  4. Love your calendars!

  5. Dearest Ann,
    Thank you. Your transparency as you live life has touched so many, as you can see from all the other comments. You have helped me to slow down, reflect more, and appreciate the changes in my own seasons of life. I’m sure some of the openness and honesty can be painful. Please know I appreciate what you are putting out there – yourself. Congratulations on #50! And again, thank you!

  6. I love your posts. I enjoy reading your thoughts on enjoying life calmly. Your art work is beautiful!

  7. Dear Ann:
    CONGRATULATIONS on your 50th edition of The Curated Life!!! What a big accomplishment for you and one you can be very proud of.

    Over the years I’ve enjoyed so many of your posts, from printables to screensavers, recipes and so much more. I always find it to be a quiet place to settle into. THANK YOU.

    I too am enjoying the gentle glide into autumn and wish you all the best.
    Erika

  8. Congratulations on your milestone Ann! This new slower, settled routine seems to fit you perfectly. I’m just grateful we can still hear from you, no matter the frequency. Happy fall 🍁🍂

  9. Ann,
    I have been following you for years. And I especially appreciate that you are slowing down, savoring the days, and being grateful for the life that you have been blessed with. I will be 74 years young at the end of this month and can identify with everything your messages represent. I love the calendars, clip art, “words worth sharing”, and the way you enhance your photos with AI. (wish I could learn that trick). I wish you good health and the slower pace you have taken with your daily activities.
    Susan

  10. Shannon Kerr says:

    I am so glad I found you…I think through Pinterest. I have so enjoyed your content, and appreciate the time and effort you put into it! Congratulations on #50! And cheers to 50(+) more! 🥂