I can’t believe it’s officially been one month sin I can’t believe it’s officially been one month since my endometriosis excision surgery. Honestly, I really thought by now I’d be coming on here saying I finally felt like myself again. I wanted this surgery to be the answer so badly. But the truth is… I’m still struggling every single day.

The lower back pain, hip pain, chronic fatigue, GI issues, insomnia, dizziness, and POTS-like symptoms are all still here. And while my surgeon was absolutely wonderful and removed the endometriosis she found, we’re now starting to realize there may be something more going on underneath it all.

Right now we’re exploring possibilities like EDS, MCAS, and POTS, which honestly feels overwhelming because getting doctors to truly listen and take women seriously can feel like a full time job in itself. I know so many women with chronic illness, endometriosis, and invisible illnesses understand exactly what I mean.

But even though I’m discouraged, I’m not giving up. I know my body, I know something still isn’t right, and I’ll continue advocating for myself until I get answers. And if sharing my story helps even one woman feel less alone in her own health journey, then it’s worth it 🤍 #chronicillnessawareness #chronicillnesswarrior #endometriosis #endometriosisexcision #chronicallyill
Since I’ve been home recovering from surgery and g Since I’ve been home recovering from surgery and getting ready to head back to work next week, I’ve been stocking my freezer with all my favorite freezer-friendly meals, and this crockpot spaghetti sauce is always at the top of the list 🍝❤️

This easy slow cooker spaghetti sauce recipe is seriously my all-time favorite comfort food. There’s nothing better than a big plate of spaghetti with homemade meat sauce, especially when the crockpot does all the work for you! Just toss everything in, let it simmer low and slow all day, and your house smells AMAZING 🤤

One of the best parts? This recipe makes a huge batch, so I always freeze extra for easy weeknight dinners later on. Just thaw, heat, and dinner is basically done 🙌 Perfect for busy work weeks, meal prep, freezer cooking, and easy family dinners!

If you want my easy crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe too, comment “recipe” below and I’ll send it your way! 🍅 #spaghetti #spaghettisauce #crockpotrecipes #crockpot #freezerfriendly
One of my favorite easy patriotic desserts to make One of my favorite easy patriotic desserts to make every summer is this fresh and delicious Patriotic Fruit Pizza! 🇺🇸🍓🫐 It’s the perfect Memorial Day dessert or Fourth of July dessert because it’s so simple to throw together, looks super festive, and everyone always loves it!

I love using fresh strawberries and blueberries to create the red, white, and blue patriotic design, and the sweet sugar cookie crust with creamy frosting makes it absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s one of those quick and easy desserts that’s perfect whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to a cookout, or just wanting a fun summer treat!

If you want the full Patriotic Fruit Pizza recipe, comment “recipe” below and I’ll send it your way! ❤️🤍 #fruitpizza #summerdessert #summerdesserts #patriotic #patrioticdessert
As we celebrate Memorial Day weekend with BBQs, fa As we celebrate Memorial Day weekend with BBQs, family gatherings, and time spent with loved ones, let’s not forget the true meaning of Memorial Day 🇺🇸❤️

This holiday is about honoring and remembering the brave men and women of our military who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and for this country we love so much. Because freedom is never free.

So while you enjoy the long weekend, fly your American flags proudly, hug your family a little tighter, and take a moment to remember the heroes who gave everything for the United States of America. Land of the free because of the brave. 🇺🇸 #america #memorialday #freedomisntfree #rememberthefallen #memorialdayweekend🇺🇸
But honestly, after this drought, waking up to a r But honestly, after this drought, waking up to a rainy morning felt so cozy. And my little garden is definitely thankful too 🌱 Nothing makes me happier lately than sitting in the rocking chairs on the porch, listening to the rain come down, and pretending I’m a little old lady already 😂

Slow mornings, fresh rain, growing gardens, and hot coffee… that’s basically my ideal summer morning at this point 🤍

Anyone else turn into a porch-sitting grandma the second it rains? 🤣🌧️ #porchsitting #porchsittin #rainymorning #cozymorning #rainymood
Hosting a Memorial Day cookout this weekend? 🇺🇸 Th Hosting a Memorial Day cookout this weekend? 🇺🇸 These American Flag Cupcakes are the perfect easy patriotic dessert for your Memorial Day party, BBQ, or summer cookout! They were so fun to decorate and turned out absolutely delicious too ❤️🤍💙

If you want the recipe for these festive Memorial Day cupcakes, comment “RECIPE” below and I’ll send it your way! 👇 And tell me… what are your Memorial Day weekend plans? ☀️🍔🌭 #memorialday #memorialdaydessert #patrioticdessert #americanflag #patriotic
Need an easy no bake Memorial Day dessert everyone Need an easy no bake Memorial Day dessert everyone will love? 🇺🇸 These patriotic chocolate dipped Oreos are the perfect last minute treat for your Memorial Day weekend cookout, BBQ, party, or family gathering! They’re super simple to make, festive, and only require a few ingredients ❤️🤍💙

Ingredients:
✨ 16 oz vanilla candy coating (or white chocolate chips)
✨ Oreo cookies
✨ Patriotic sprinkles
✨ Red & blue glitter gel/icing (optional)

How to make them:
1️⃣ Melt the vanilla candy coating according to package directions
2️⃣ Dip each Oreo into the melted chocolate until fully coated
3️⃣ Add patriotic sprinkles while the chocolate is still soft
4️⃣ Drizzle with red and blue gel icing for a fun patriotic design
5️⃣ Let the chocolate harden and enjoy!

These no bake patriotic Oreos are such an easy Memorial Day dessert idea and would also be perfect for the 4th of July, summer parties, or any patriotic celebration! 🇺🇸✨

Save this easy patriotic dessert recipe for your Memorial Day weekend plans! #memorialdaydessert #memorialdaydesserts #oreos #dippedoreos #patrioticdesserts
Not me rolling out of bed looking like an absolute Not me rolling out of bed looking like an absolute hot mess but still getting way too excited to see if my tomato plants grew overnight 😜 I swear gardening has officially become my personality lately. Last year I felt like a complete beginner, but this year I actually feel like I kind of know what I’m doing now 😂

There’s just something so exciting about checking on your vegetable garden every morning, seeing new blooms, baby tomatoes growing, and all the progress from your hard work. Honestly, it’s become one of my favorite parts of the day 🪴☀️

Anyone else out there obsessed with checking their garden first thing every morning too?! 🍅 #gardening #tomatoplant #funnygardening #gardensofinstagram #gardenerlife
I saw this “Top 5 Horror Stories” trend on Instagr I saw this “Top 5 Horror Stories” trend on Instagram and honestly… this one hit a little too close to home. 💔

As many of you know, I’m exactly 3 weeks post-op from my endometriosis excision surgery today. While my surgery was successful and my surgeon did remove the endometriosis, I’m still dealing with many of the same symptoms I had before surgery. And if I’m being honest, that’s been really hard mentally and emotionally.

One of my biggest fears is that my endometriosis surgery won’t fully help and that the chronic pain, back pain, insomnia, pelvic pain, and fatigue never truly go away. I’ve heard from so many women in the endometriosis community that healing after excision surgery can take anywhere from 2-6 months, sometimes even longer. And while that gives me hope, it’s also difficult knowing recovery and healing isn’t immediate.

Endometriosis has already taken so much from my life physically, mentally, and emotionally. I just want to feel like myself again someday. But for now, I’m continuing to trust God through this healing journey, stay consistent with pelvic floor physical therapy, listen to my body, and take recovery one day at a time. 💛

I also wanted to share this because I know so many others silently struggle with chronic illness, chronic pain, endometriosis, fatigue, and invisible illnesses too. Healing is never linear, and every recovery journey looks different. If you’re going through something similar, please know you’re not alone. 🫶 #chronicillness #endometriosis #endometriosisawareness #chronicillnesswarrior #endometriosiswarrior
I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown b I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown by! And the fact that it’s already Memorial Day weekend coming up!! I had a feeling it would since I’ve been on surgery leave and recovering this month 😜 But one thing I’m SO glad I did before surgery was get all of my patriotic summer decor put out early because I definitely wouldn’t have felt like decorating afterward.

Now I actually get to sit back, relax, and enjoy all the cozy red, white, and blue vibes around the house all summer long ❤️ There’s just something about patriotic home decor, American flag accents, and a festive coffee bar that makes everything feel like summertime is officially here!

So here’s a little peek at my patriotic coffee bar setup in all its red, white, and blue glory today 🇺🇸☕️ And honestly? I’ll probably leave it up all summer because I love it that much 😂
#patrioticvibes #patrioticdecor #coffeebar #vintagepatriotic #americandecor
AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer grilling recipe, you’ve got to try the @juicy_lucyburger burgers from @harristeeter 🍔 These frozen cheese-stuffed burger patties are packed with melty cheese inside, so every bite tastes like a gourmet restaurant-style cheeseburger right at home!

One of my favorite things about these burgers is how quick and easy they are to make. There’s no need to thaw them first, just take the patties straight from the freezer, throw them on the grill for about 6 minutes per side, and dinner is ready in under 15 minutes! Perfect for summer cookouts, busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, and weekend grilling with family and friends.

If you love juicy cheeseburgers, easy grilling ideas, and simple summer dinner recipes, definitely head to your local Harris Teeter and grab these Juicy Lucy Burgers to try this summer too! 🍔☀️
Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 weeks post-op from my endometriosis excision surgery! Honestly, the best birthday gift I could ask for is finally being cleared to soak in the hot tub and take my scalding hot baths again 😂 If you know me, then you know how much I’ve missed my hot baths during recovery these past two weeks!

At first, I was told no soaking for 4 weeks, so finding out it was only 2 weeks truly felt like a win  So today’s plans include lots of relaxing, healing, hot tub time, hanging out with my hubby, and continuing to take it easy while my body recovers from surgery.

And because life has a sense of humor, I also have pelvic floor physical therapy today too… nothing says “happy 33rd birthday” quite like a PT appointment 🤣 But honestly, I’m just thankful to be healing, feeling better, and moving forward in my endometriosis recovery journey one day at a time. 💛

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/64pMr
POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by binge reading psychological thriller books 🤣📚

Since I’ve been laying around recovering with not much to do, I’ve spent most of my time completely hooked on some of the best psychological thriller books I’ve read in a while. Honestly, these twisty thriller novels have been the perfect distraction and now I need everyone to read them with me 👀 If you love dark thrillers, shocking endings, suspenseful books, and plot twists you NEVER see coming… add these to your TBR immediately!

📖 My recent psychological thriller book recommendations:

1️⃣ Gray After Dark — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I could NOT put this one down. Definitely my favorite thriller out of all of them! It had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end and the twists were insane. Dark, suspenseful, creepy, and so addictive. If you love fast-paced psychological thrillers, this one is a MUST READ.

2️⃣ Drowning in Paper Flowers — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another thriller that completely consumed me. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story surprised me again. The ending?! Absolutely wild.

3️⃣ Her First Lie — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a fun and twisty thriller read! Plus there was briefly a character named Charity in it which made me weirdly excited because I NEVER find my name in books 🤣

4️⃣ The Bartender — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved this easy thriller read! It has multiple POVs which can sometimes lose me, but this one was done really well and kept me hooked the whole time.

5️⃣ The Missing Ones — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Probably my least favorite of the bunch, mainly because the multiple POVs got a little confusing for me. BUT the storyline was super dark, twisty, and entertaining the entire time.

If you’re into thriller books, psychological suspense novels, mystery books with shocking twists, or binge-worthy reads that keep you up way too late… save this list for later 📚✨

Now tell me your favorite psychological thriller book because apparently this is my entire personality while I’m recovering 😂 

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/ #tbrlist #thrillerbooks #psycologicalthriller #bookstagrammer #thrillerbook
Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Isl Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Island last month and already wishing we could go back! 🌴 Even though the weather didn’t exactly cooperate with us 😂 we still found SO many fun things to do around the island and honestly had the best time exploring. From beautiful beaches and cozy restaurants to shopping, sightseeing, and hidden gems, there’s so much to experience on Hilton Head Island, even on chilly or rainy days!

I finally finished my full Hilton Head Island travel blog post too, and it’s packed with all of our favorite spots, things to do, where to eat, and tips for first-time visitors! If you’re planning a Hilton Head vacation, family beach trip, or weekend getaway to South Carolina, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip 🏖️✨

Comment “Hilton Head” below and I’ll send you the blog post link! 💛 #hiltonhead #hiltonheadisland #hiltonheadsc #hiltonheadvacation #explorehiltonhead
Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my favorite simple summer decor 🌸 There’s truly nothing prettier than fresh peony blooms brightening up the kitchen and making the whole house feel cozy, cottagecore, and cheerful. I only wish peony season lasted longer because these gorgeous flowers bloom way too fast! 🩷 Wishing you all a slow, happy Saturday filled with sunshine, fresh flowers, and little moments that make home feel special! #peonies #peoniesbouquet #peoniesofinstagram #peoniesaremyfavorite #peonieseason
POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually en POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually ends 😂🐣 Months later and I’m STILL finding plastic Easter eggs hidden all over my house thanks to my cats. Apparently seasonal home decor is way more exciting than the basket full of actual cat toys I bought them 😹

At this point, my cats have turned my home into a year-round Easter egg hunt. One day it’s Easter eggs under the couch, the next it’s Christmas ornaments rolling down the hallway, and somehow little pumpkins disappear every fall too 🤣 If you have indoor cats, you already know that no cute decor is ever truly safe.

Honestly though, finding random Easter eggs around the house months later has become one of my favorite funny cat mom moments 😂 I just wish my cats would at least start hiding money or candy inside them to make this surprise treasure hunt a little more rewarding next time 😜 #catmomlife #catmom #funnycat #funnycats #catmomproblems
I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much that I immediately ordered them for the back porch too 🙌 and honestly… best decision ever.

No watering. No dying plants. No stress.
Especially while I’m still recovering from surgery—because let’s be real, plant care is not happening right now 🤣

These look SO real, add the perfect cozy touch to any outdoor space, and are completely maintenance-free. If you’ve been wanting that lush, green porch vibe without the upkeep… these are it.

Perfect for:
✔️ Front porch decor
✔️ Back patio styling
✔️ Low-maintenance outdoor plants
✔️ Faux plant lovers

Comment “SHOP” and I’ll send you the link 🌿 #porchdecor #ferns #fern #hangingbaskets #hangingbasket
Flower Lovin’ Friends! One week post-op from end Flower Lovin’ Friends! 

One week post-op from endometriosis excision surgery and finally starting to feel a little like myself again 🙌🏻

This past weekend was rough. Lots of pain and very little energy, but I’m happy to say I think I’m finally turning a corner. The intense pain has eased, and now it’s more soreness and discomfort (which I will gladly take over that pain any day!).

I also got my pathology report back and everything came back non-cancerous, just endometriosis, which is such a huge relief 💛

The biggest struggle right now? Post-surgery fatigue is no joke. I’ll think I have enough energy to do something simple like water my flowers, and my body immediately humbles me 😅 So I’m learning (slowly lol) to rest, listen to my body, and take recovery one day at a time.

Healing isn’t linear, but we’re getting there, slow and steady 💫 Thank you all so much for the love, prayers, and support… it truly means everything to me.

Happy Wednesday, friends 🤍

#endometriosis #endosurgery #endometriosissurgery #excisionsurgery

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Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! In surgery actually!! 🤣

I’ve been meaning to share an update since my surgery on Wednesday, but honestly, this recovery has been way harder than I expected. This was my second endometriosis surgery, but my first was just an ablation… and this time I had excision surgery. And when I say it feels like my insides went through a cheese grater… I wish I was kidding 🫠

But I have to take a moment to say how incredibly grateful I am for the team at UNC Hillsborough. From the moment I arrived, every single person who was in the OR came in, introduced themselves, reassured me, and truly cared. That kind of compassion in healthcare is rare, and I felt so at peace going into surgery.

My surgeon was absolutely amazing and believes she was able to remove all of my endometriosis 🙌🏼 We were really concerned it had spread to my bowels based on my symptoms, but thankfully it hadn’t. There was a nodule just millimeters away (which was likely causing so much of my pain), but she was able to remove it safely, meaning I don’t need another surgery with a colorectal specialist, which was my biggest fear.

I go back on May 22 for my post-op appointment to talk about next steps and treatment options. Unfortunately, endometriosis has no cure… and it can come back. There’s still such a lack of research and funding for women dealing with this disease, and that’s something that needs to change.

It’s also heartbreaking that we had to travel 3.5 hours just to receive this level of care. After years of being dismissed and gaslit by doctors, I finally feel like I’m on the right path.

I’m so thankful for my husband and my family who have been by my side through all of this. I’m praying this surgery gives me years of relief and a chance to live more pain-free 💛

If you’re struggling with endometriosis, I see you. You’re not alone. Please reach out to me if you are suffering too, I’d love to share more of my experience with you and help you the best way I can as well! #surgeryrecovery #endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #endometriosissupport #endowarrior
Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC a Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC and I’m just waiting to be called back! They even moved up my arrival time (bless 🙌🏻), but I’ve still got a couple hours to sit here and let the nerves + hanger kick in. And also how sexy does this surgical cap look on me?! 😆

After a brutal pain flare last night, I am MORE than ready to kick endometriosis’ ass today and finally get some relief 🙏 Time to evict everything that’s been causing all this chaos 😜

So help a girl out: drop your favorite distractions, funny stories, or literally anything to pass the time while I wait! Let’s do this!🫶 #endometriosis #endometriosiswarrior #endometriosissurgery #chronicillnesswarrior #excisionsurgery
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Mornings on Macedonia

DIY, Decor, & More

Fall · August 24, 2024

Apple Kitchen Ideas

With Fall creeping around the corner, I wanted to start decorating just a tad bit for it. Without overdoing it though, because it is still quite toasty here. So I thought an apple theme would be appropriate. Especially since it’s August and all the kids are going back to school now. I’ll be sharing some apple kitchen ideas with you all today to give you a better idea on how to decorate on a “pre-fall theme”.

And even if you just love the theme of apple kitchens anytime of the year, these ideas would be perfect for you too! I think it is the perfect mix of rustic country decor that could go year round as well.

Now, I didn’t go all out and decorate everything with apples. But, I did make a few cute things to create an apple themed tiered tray that is perfect for kitchen decor. So come with me as I share all the cute apple kitchen decor ideas here!

Whether you want to make your own decor, or shop for decor, I am giving you all the options on just how you can style your kitchen with some cute apples!

Apple Kitchen Tray

This post also contains affiliate links, which means I make a small commission off anything you purchase through here, at no additional cost to you. Please read my full privacy policy for more details.

Apple Kitchen Decor Ideas

Like I mentioned above, I made some cute apple signs for my tiered tray in my kitchen. Which, I will get into more detail later.

But first, I figured I would share just some simple decor ideas to get you started out with. That way, if you don’t want to make your own decor, you can just look for these kind of pieces and buy them instead. 

Tea Towels

Tea towels are always a great idea when you want to decorate for a specific holiday or theme. It adds just the right amount of touch without it being over the top.

Just find you some cute towels with red or green apples on it and you are all set! You can drape them over the dishwasher or oven handle or front of the sink for an adorable update.

Bonus points if you already have green kitchen colors going on, then the green hues from the apples on the towels will match perfectly!

You can find cute themed tea towels really anywhere, and they are usually such a great price too. You could also add in an apple floor mat too. Especially if you find one that matches your tea towel!

Dish Ware

Another easy decor idea is to collect any dish ware with an apple theme. Y’all know I love displaying dish ware, specifically Rae Dunn dishes in my case.

But this is a great way to collect dishes in a certain theme. And be able to actually display them and use them both. So it’s a win win!

I love when things are both practical and functional! And, if you have open shelving in your kitchen, it’s the perfect way to display these pieces too. You can look for any pan set with an apple print on them and start a collection of apple kitchen decor this way. 

Artwork

If you’re able to find some apple artwork, it would definitely make for a unique statement piece in your kitchen too! You can look for artwork with more of a modern design, or hit up some thrift stores for vintage pieces.

Look for artwork that will compliment the color scheme of your kitchen. Like I mentioned above, if you have a green kitchen decoration theme, then finding artwork with green apples painted on it would be perfect!

Or, if you want more red apple kitchen decor instead, just look for pieces like that too. Nothing will spice up a plain kitchen wall quite like artwork with a bright apple pattern to it!

Florals

Sometimes, you can even get lucky enough to find florals that have apples in them. Like some sprays or stems that would look perfect in a vase on your dining room table.

Or a garland with red apples that you can drape around the table too. I always love to have a tablescape theme going.

Not only for holiday parties and special occasions, but really any time of the year too! It’s always nice to have family dinners by a decorated table I think!

Candles

Y’all know I am all about candles too. Especially ones from my favorite, Antique Candle Co. And luckily, they have several candles available in an apple scent! So not only can your kitchen have an apple decor theme going on, but it can smell like the goodness of baked apple treats too!

Without actually having to do all the work! Which you can’t beat that. And, if you can find candles that have apples on them too, that would be a perfect way to decorate your kitchen in the apple theme as well!

DIY Signs

So like I mentioned above, I made my very own DIY apple signs for my kitchen’s tiered tray. To do so, I used my handy dandy xTool P2 machine. Then, I simply downloaded a SVG file of apples off of Etsy that I loved first. Don’t worry, I will link the exact one I used below:

Using 3 mm basswood plywood, I had my P2 cut the files. After they were all cut, I decided to paint them with my favorite, Fusion Mineral Paint too.

Making DIY Apple Signs

I wanted the color of apples to be a deep red, and I had the perfect color already for that. The red colors really pop against our white cabinets in the kitchen so I love how it gives a big statement to my tiered tray in the middle of the island.

Fusion Mineral Paint for Apple Signs
Here are the paint colors I used!

After painting all the little wooden pieces, I then used my favorite B-7000 glue to glue everything in place. After letting it dry, the signs were ready to go.

Apple Kitchen Decor Ideas
Painting Apple Kitchen Signs

I think they are the perfect addition to my tiered tray and make for the best apple kitchen decor in my humble opinion!

Apple Kitchen Ideas

Having temporary touches like these little signs are such a great way to decorate seasonally. Without having to make a major commitment when it comes to choosing a decorative element you want to focus on in your kitchen.

DIY Apple Sign
Apple Cider Sign
Finished Apple Sign
Fresh Apples Sign

Enjoy These Apple Kitchen Ideas!

After all, the kitchen is the heart of your home and you want your design choices to amplify that! I hope you enjoyed these easy apple kitchen ideas and I hope it inspires you decorate a little too!

Faux Caramel Apple
Antique Peanut Butter Jar
You can even add some faux caramel apples to your tiered tray too. You can find some on Etsy as well. So cute!

It really transforms the whole look of the kitchen when you decorate with a certain theme throughout. Let me know if you decorate your kitchen for fall too. Whether it be with apples or pumpkins, I want to know what your favorite fall kitchen pieces are below!

DIY Apple Decor

And now if you’re in the mood to bake something with apples in your kitchen, I’ve got you covered with that too! Check out these yummy recipes below:

  • Apple Cinnamon Swirl Bread
  • Easy Apple Dumplings
  • German Apple Pie
  • Fresh Apple Walnut Cake With Caramel Glaze
  • Starbucks Caramel Apple Spice Copycat Recipe
  • Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies

In: Fall

About Charity Gentry

I love Jesus, coffee, and home decor. I also love to cook and bake as well as read in my spare time! Follow along with me for all my latest DIY projects and ideas!

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Comments

  1. Debbie- Dabble says

    August 28, 2024 at 1:04 pm

    LOVE all your apple decor…I have an apple and sunflower theme in my Kitchen for Late Summer/Early Fall….I will be sharing it all next week…Thanks for all the inspiration…Hope you are enjoying your week!!
    Hugs,
    Deb
    Debbi-Dabble Blog

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      September 4, 2024 at 11:36 pm

      Thank you so much Deb! A sunflower theme is great for late summer/early fall decor too!

      Reply

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About Me

Follow along with me for all things home decor and modern farmhouse style! I also love sharing simple DIY projects and how to style and decorate every room of your house! Thanks for stopping by!



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I can’t believe it’s officially been one month sin I can’t believe it’s officially been one month since my endometriosis excision surgery. Honestly, I really thought by now I’d be coming on here saying I finally felt like myself again. I wanted this surgery to be the answer so badly. But the truth is… I’m still struggling every single day.

The lower back pain, hip pain, chronic fatigue, GI issues, insomnia, dizziness, and POTS-like symptoms are all still here. And while my surgeon was absolutely wonderful and removed the endometriosis she found, we’re now starting to realize there may be something more going on underneath it all.

Right now we’re exploring possibilities like EDS, MCAS, and POTS, which honestly feels overwhelming because getting doctors to truly listen and take women seriously can feel like a full time job in itself. I know so many women with chronic illness, endometriosis, and invisible illnesses understand exactly what I mean.

But even though I’m discouraged, I’m not giving up. I know my body, I know something still isn’t right, and I’ll continue advocating for myself until I get answers. And if sharing my story helps even one woman feel less alone in her own health journey, then it’s worth it 🤍 #chronicillnessawareness #chronicillnesswarrior #endometriosis #endometriosisexcision #chronicallyill
Since I’ve been home recovering from surgery and g Since I’ve been home recovering from surgery and getting ready to head back to work next week, I’ve been stocking my freezer with all my favorite freezer-friendly meals, and this crockpot spaghetti sauce is always at the top of the list 🍝❤️

This easy slow cooker spaghetti sauce recipe is seriously my all-time favorite comfort food. There’s nothing better than a big plate of spaghetti with homemade meat sauce, especially when the crockpot does all the work for you! Just toss everything in, let it simmer low and slow all day, and your house smells AMAZING 🤤

One of the best parts? This recipe makes a huge batch, so I always freeze extra for easy weeknight dinners later on. Just thaw, heat, and dinner is basically done 🙌 Perfect for busy work weeks, meal prep, freezer cooking, and easy family dinners!

If you want my easy crockpot spaghetti sauce recipe too, comment “recipe” below and I’ll send it your way! 🍅 #spaghetti #spaghettisauce #crockpotrecipes #crockpot #freezerfriendly
One of my favorite easy patriotic desserts to make One of my favorite easy patriotic desserts to make every summer is this fresh and delicious Patriotic Fruit Pizza! 🇺🇸🍓🫐 It’s the perfect Memorial Day dessert or Fourth of July dessert because it’s so simple to throw together, looks super festive, and everyone always loves it!

I love using fresh strawberries and blueberries to create the red, white, and blue patriotic design, and the sweet sugar cookie crust with creamy frosting makes it absolutely irresistible. Plus, it’s one of those quick and easy desserts that’s perfect whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, heading to a cookout, or just wanting a fun summer treat!

If you want the full Patriotic Fruit Pizza recipe, comment “recipe” below and I’ll send it your way! ❤️🤍 #fruitpizza #summerdessert #summerdesserts #patriotic #patrioticdessert
As we celebrate Memorial Day weekend with BBQs, fa As we celebrate Memorial Day weekend with BBQs, family gatherings, and time spent with loved ones, let’s not forget the true meaning of Memorial Day 🇺🇸❤️

This holiday is about honoring and remembering the brave men and women of our military who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and for this country we love so much. Because freedom is never free.

So while you enjoy the long weekend, fly your American flags proudly, hug your family a little tighter, and take a moment to remember the heroes who gave everything for the United States of America. Land of the free because of the brave. 🇺🇸 #america #memorialday #freedomisntfree #rememberthefallen #memorialdayweekend🇺🇸
But honestly, after this drought, waking up to a r But honestly, after this drought, waking up to a rainy morning felt so cozy. And my little garden is definitely thankful too 🌱 Nothing makes me happier lately than sitting in the rocking chairs on the porch, listening to the rain come down, and pretending I’m a little old lady already 😂

Slow mornings, fresh rain, growing gardens, and hot coffee… that’s basically my ideal summer morning at this point 🤍

Anyone else turn into a porch-sitting grandma the second it rains? 🤣🌧️ #porchsitting #porchsittin #rainymorning #cozymorning #rainymood
Hosting a Memorial Day cookout this weekend? 🇺🇸 Th Hosting a Memorial Day cookout this weekend? 🇺🇸 These American Flag Cupcakes are the perfect easy patriotic dessert for your Memorial Day party, BBQ, or summer cookout! They were so fun to decorate and turned out absolutely delicious too ❤️🤍💙

If you want the recipe for these festive Memorial Day cupcakes, comment “RECIPE” below and I’ll send it your way! 👇 And tell me… what are your Memorial Day weekend plans? ☀️🍔🌭 #memorialday #memorialdaydessert #patrioticdessert #americanflag #patriotic
Need an easy no bake Memorial Day dessert everyone Need an easy no bake Memorial Day dessert everyone will love? 🇺🇸 These patriotic chocolate dipped Oreos are the perfect last minute treat for your Memorial Day weekend cookout, BBQ, party, or family gathering! They’re super simple to make, festive, and only require a few ingredients ❤️🤍💙

Ingredients:
✨ 16 oz vanilla candy coating (or white chocolate chips)
✨ Oreo cookies
✨ Patriotic sprinkles
✨ Red & blue glitter gel/icing (optional)

How to make them:
1️⃣ Melt the vanilla candy coating according to package directions
2️⃣ Dip each Oreo into the melted chocolate until fully coated
3️⃣ Add patriotic sprinkles while the chocolate is still soft
4️⃣ Drizzle with red and blue gel icing for a fun patriotic design
5️⃣ Let the chocolate harden and enjoy!

These no bake patriotic Oreos are such an easy Memorial Day dessert idea and would also be perfect for the 4th of July, summer parties, or any patriotic celebration! 🇺🇸✨

Save this easy patriotic dessert recipe for your Memorial Day weekend plans! #memorialdaydessert #memorialdaydesserts #oreos #dippedoreos #patrioticdesserts
Not me rolling out of bed looking like an absolute Not me rolling out of bed looking like an absolute hot mess but still getting way too excited to see if my tomato plants grew overnight 😜 I swear gardening has officially become my personality lately. Last year I felt like a complete beginner, but this year I actually feel like I kind of know what I’m doing now 😂

There’s just something so exciting about checking on your vegetable garden every morning, seeing new blooms, baby tomatoes growing, and all the progress from your hard work. Honestly, it’s become one of my favorite parts of the day 🪴☀️

Anyone else out there obsessed with checking their garden first thing every morning too?! 🍅 #gardening #tomatoplant #funnygardening #gardensofinstagram #gardenerlife
I saw this “Top 5 Horror Stories” trend on Instagr I saw this “Top 5 Horror Stories” trend on Instagram and honestly… this one hit a little too close to home. 💔

As many of you know, I’m exactly 3 weeks post-op from my endometriosis excision surgery today. While my surgery was successful and my surgeon did remove the endometriosis, I’m still dealing with many of the same symptoms I had before surgery. And if I’m being honest, that’s been really hard mentally and emotionally.

One of my biggest fears is that my endometriosis surgery won’t fully help and that the chronic pain, back pain, insomnia, pelvic pain, and fatigue never truly go away. I’ve heard from so many women in the endometriosis community that healing after excision surgery can take anywhere from 2-6 months, sometimes even longer. And while that gives me hope, it’s also difficult knowing recovery and healing isn’t immediate.

Endometriosis has already taken so much from my life physically, mentally, and emotionally. I just want to feel like myself again someday. But for now, I’m continuing to trust God through this healing journey, stay consistent with pelvic floor physical therapy, listen to my body, and take recovery one day at a time. 💛

I also wanted to share this because I know so many others silently struggle with chronic illness, chronic pain, endometriosis, fatigue, and invisible illnesses too. Healing is never linear, and every recovery journey looks different. If you’re going through something similar, please know you’re not alone. 🫶 #chronicillness #endometriosis #endometriosisawareness #chronicillnesswarrior #endometriosiswarrior
I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown b I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown by! And the fact that it’s already Memorial Day weekend coming up!! I had a feeling it would since I’ve been on surgery leave and recovering this month 😜 But one thing I’m SO glad I did before surgery was get all of my patriotic summer decor put out early because I definitely wouldn’t have felt like decorating afterward.

Now I actually get to sit back, relax, and enjoy all the cozy red, white, and blue vibes around the house all summer long ❤️ There’s just something about patriotic home decor, American flag accents, and a festive coffee bar that makes everything feel like summertime is officially here!

So here’s a little peek at my patriotic coffee bar setup in all its red, white, and blue glory today 🇺🇸☕️ And honestly? I’ll probably leave it up all summer because I love it that much 😂
#patrioticvibes #patrioticdecor #coffeebar #vintagepatriotic #americandecor
AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer grilling recipe, you’ve got to try the @juicy_lucyburger burgers from @harristeeter 🍔 These frozen cheese-stuffed burger patties are packed with melty cheese inside, so every bite tastes like a gourmet restaurant-style cheeseburger right at home!

One of my favorite things about these burgers is how quick and easy they are to make. There’s no need to thaw them first, just take the patties straight from the freezer, throw them on the grill for about 6 minutes per side, and dinner is ready in under 15 minutes! Perfect for summer cookouts, busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, and weekend grilling with family and friends.

If you love juicy cheeseburgers, easy grilling ideas, and simple summer dinner recipes, definitely head to your local Harris Teeter and grab these Juicy Lucy Burgers to try this summer too! 🍔☀️
Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 weeks post-op from my endometriosis excision surgery! Honestly, the best birthday gift I could ask for is finally being cleared to soak in the hot tub and take my scalding hot baths again 😂 If you know me, then you know how much I’ve missed my hot baths during recovery these past two weeks!

At first, I was told no soaking for 4 weeks, so finding out it was only 2 weeks truly felt like a win  So today’s plans include lots of relaxing, healing, hot tub time, hanging out with my hubby, and continuing to take it easy while my body recovers from surgery.

And because life has a sense of humor, I also have pelvic floor physical therapy today too… nothing says “happy 33rd birthday” quite like a PT appointment 🤣 But honestly, I’m just thankful to be healing, feeling better, and moving forward in my endometriosis recovery journey one day at a time. 💛

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/64pMr
POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by binge reading psychological thriller books 🤣📚

Since I’ve been laying around recovering with not much to do, I’ve spent most of my time completely hooked on some of the best psychological thriller books I’ve read in a while. Honestly, these twisty thriller novels have been the perfect distraction and now I need everyone to read them with me 👀 If you love dark thrillers, shocking endings, suspenseful books, and plot twists you NEVER see coming… add these to your TBR immediately!

📖 My recent psychological thriller book recommendations:

1️⃣ Gray After Dark — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I could NOT put this one down. Definitely my favorite thriller out of all of them! It had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end and the twists were insane. Dark, suspenseful, creepy, and so addictive. If you love fast-paced psychological thrillers, this one is a MUST READ.

2️⃣ Drowning in Paper Flowers — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another thriller that completely consumed me. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story surprised me again. The ending?! Absolutely wild.

3️⃣ Her First Lie — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a fun and twisty thriller read! Plus there was briefly a character named Charity in it which made me weirdly excited because I NEVER find my name in books 🤣

4️⃣ The Bartender — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved this easy thriller read! It has multiple POVs which can sometimes lose me, but this one was done really well and kept me hooked the whole time.

5️⃣ The Missing Ones — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Probably my least favorite of the bunch, mainly because the multiple POVs got a little confusing for me. BUT the storyline was super dark, twisty, and entertaining the entire time.

If you’re into thriller books, psychological suspense novels, mystery books with shocking twists, or binge-worthy reads that keep you up way too late… save this list for later 📚✨

Now tell me your favorite psychological thriller book because apparently this is my entire personality while I’m recovering 😂 

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/ #tbrlist #thrillerbooks #psycologicalthriller #bookstagrammer #thrillerbook
Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Isl Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Island last month and already wishing we could go back! 🌴 Even though the weather didn’t exactly cooperate with us 😂 we still found SO many fun things to do around the island and honestly had the best time exploring. From beautiful beaches and cozy restaurants to shopping, sightseeing, and hidden gems, there’s so much to experience on Hilton Head Island, even on chilly or rainy days!

I finally finished my full Hilton Head Island travel blog post too, and it’s packed with all of our favorite spots, things to do, where to eat, and tips for first-time visitors! If you’re planning a Hilton Head vacation, family beach trip, or weekend getaway to South Carolina, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip 🏖️✨

Comment “Hilton Head” below and I’ll send you the blog post link! 💛 #hiltonhead #hiltonheadisland #hiltonheadsc #hiltonheadvacation #explorehiltonhead
Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my favorite simple summer decor 🌸 There’s truly nothing prettier than fresh peony blooms brightening up the kitchen and making the whole house feel cozy, cottagecore, and cheerful. I only wish peony season lasted longer because these gorgeous flowers bloom way too fast! 🩷 Wishing you all a slow, happy Saturday filled with sunshine, fresh flowers, and little moments that make home feel special! #peonies #peoniesbouquet #peoniesofinstagram #peoniesaremyfavorite #peonieseason
POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually en POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually ends 😂🐣 Months later and I’m STILL finding plastic Easter eggs hidden all over my house thanks to my cats. Apparently seasonal home decor is way more exciting than the basket full of actual cat toys I bought them 😹

At this point, my cats have turned my home into a year-round Easter egg hunt. One day it’s Easter eggs under the couch, the next it’s Christmas ornaments rolling down the hallway, and somehow little pumpkins disappear every fall too 🤣 If you have indoor cats, you already know that no cute decor is ever truly safe.

Honestly though, finding random Easter eggs around the house months later has become one of my favorite funny cat mom moments 😂 I just wish my cats would at least start hiding money or candy inside them to make this surprise treasure hunt a little more rewarding next time 😜 #catmomlife #catmom #funnycat #funnycats #catmomproblems
I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much that I immediately ordered them for the back porch too 🙌 and honestly… best decision ever.

No watering. No dying plants. No stress.
Especially while I’m still recovering from surgery—because let’s be real, plant care is not happening right now 🤣

These look SO real, add the perfect cozy touch to any outdoor space, and are completely maintenance-free. If you’ve been wanting that lush, green porch vibe without the upkeep… these are it.

Perfect for:
✔️ Front porch decor
✔️ Back patio styling
✔️ Low-maintenance outdoor plants
✔️ Faux plant lovers

Comment “SHOP” and I’ll send you the link 🌿 #porchdecor #ferns #fern #hangingbaskets #hangingbasket
Flower Lovin’ Friends! One week post-op from end Flower Lovin’ Friends! 

One week post-op from endometriosis excision surgery and finally starting to feel a little like myself again 🙌🏻

This past weekend was rough. Lots of pain and very little energy, but I’m happy to say I think I’m finally turning a corner. The intense pain has eased, and now it’s more soreness and discomfort (which I will gladly take over that pain any day!).

I also got my pathology report back and everything came back non-cancerous, just endometriosis, which is such a huge relief 💛

The biggest struggle right now? Post-surgery fatigue is no joke. I’ll think I have enough energy to do something simple like water my flowers, and my body immediately humbles me 😅 So I’m learning (slowly lol) to rest, listen to my body, and take recovery one day at a time.

Healing isn’t linear, but we’re getting there, slow and steady 💫 Thank you all so much for the love, prayers, and support… it truly means everything to me.

Happy Wednesday, friends 🤍

#endometriosis #endosurgery #endometriosissurgery #excisionsurgery

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Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! In surgery actually!! 🤣

I’ve been meaning to share an update since my surgery on Wednesday, but honestly, this recovery has been way harder than I expected. This was my second endometriosis surgery, but my first was just an ablation… and this time I had excision surgery. And when I say it feels like my insides went through a cheese grater… I wish I was kidding 🫠

But I have to take a moment to say how incredibly grateful I am for the team at UNC Hillsborough. From the moment I arrived, every single person who was in the OR came in, introduced themselves, reassured me, and truly cared. That kind of compassion in healthcare is rare, and I felt so at peace going into surgery.

My surgeon was absolutely amazing and believes she was able to remove all of my endometriosis 🙌🏼 We were really concerned it had spread to my bowels based on my symptoms, but thankfully it hadn’t. There was a nodule just millimeters away (which was likely causing so much of my pain), but she was able to remove it safely, meaning I don’t need another surgery with a colorectal specialist, which was my biggest fear.

I go back on May 22 for my post-op appointment to talk about next steps and treatment options. Unfortunately, endometriosis has no cure… and it can come back. There’s still such a lack of research and funding for women dealing with this disease, and that’s something that needs to change.

It’s also heartbreaking that we had to travel 3.5 hours just to receive this level of care. After years of being dismissed and gaslit by doctors, I finally feel like I’m on the right path.

I’m so thankful for my husband and my family who have been by my side through all of this. I’m praying this surgery gives me years of relief and a chance to live more pain-free 💛

If you’re struggling with endometriosis, I see you. You’re not alone. Please reach out to me if you are suffering too, I’d love to share more of my experience with you and help you the best way I can as well! #surgeryrecovery #endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #endometriosissupport #endowarrior
Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC a Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC and I’m just waiting to be called back! They even moved up my arrival time (bless 🙌🏻), but I’ve still got a couple hours to sit here and let the nerves + hanger kick in. And also how sexy does this surgical cap look on me?! 😆

After a brutal pain flare last night, I am MORE than ready to kick endometriosis’ ass today and finally get some relief 🙏 Time to evict everything that’s been causing all this chaos 😜

So help a girl out: drop your favorite distractions, funny stories, or literally anything to pass the time while I wait! Let’s do this!🫶 #endometriosis #endometriosiswarrior #endometriosissurgery #chronicillnesswarrior #excisionsurgery

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