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. I am glad you show yourself some grace! How true that none of us are perfect. Thanks for the reminder that every day, every hour can be a fresh start, with no mistakes in it!

  2. Mary Philips says:

    Ann, congrats on The 50th Curated Life issue! Reading each one is like sitting with a friend- thank you!

  3. Thank you for your posts- I always enjoy reading them!

    1. Julie Thompson says:

      Congratulations on reaching this 50th milestone. I really enjoy your thoughtful and low key ideas on how to create a welcoming home. Thanks for all you do for your readers!

  4. I love your recipes. They are easy and delicious.

  5. Renee Crockett says:

    Congratulations! I really enjoy reading The Curated Life and I’m really looking forward to your fall ideals.
    Renee

  6. Nancy Kelley says:

    What a wonderful milestone, Ann! Congratulations on your 50th edition of your delightful blog! I look forward to reading it each week and I hope you continue sharing your valuable insights, recipes and lovely illustrations with us!

  7. Susan Patterson says:

    I love your computer calendars, and download them every month! I’ve gotten such lovely comments from friends about them. Plus, your recipes are so easy and so good. Thank you for all you’ve done.

  8. Micheline Kane says:

    Ann, there is a quietness in your posts that I very much seem to relate to. The older I get the more I look at things with less “ gotta” attitude. I still do everything with all my heart, but my perspective has shifted and I feel your calmness in your posts, which I look forward to whether it’s a kind phrase or a quick comforting recipe. I thank you♥️

  9. Congratulations on 50! I love your printable so much 💕

  10. Thank you for creating The Curated Life and congratulations on reaching this milestone!