As I look out the window at nothing but smoke, my heart goes out to everyone affected by the wildfires on the West Coast. Prayers going out for rain and relief.

That, and four day weeks throw me. What? It’s Friday already? Hence, this is a little late this morning.

So let’s get going with something to lighten our hearts.

One

A few weeks ago, I told you I was diving into A Queen in Hiding by Sarah Kozloff. Since then, I’ve read all four books in the series. I have been binge reading. Leave me alone reading. Staying up too late reading. Such a fun fantasy series. So I am recommending it twice.

Two

Over Labor Day weekend, my best friend invited me up to her time-share in Port Townsend, Washington, and we spent the weekend at the beach. Being so like minded, we did all the things we love: we beachcombed, hiked in the woods, read books (see #1) and played way too many games of Splendor. Have you ever played Splendor? It took me a few games to get the hang of it, but I enjoyed the ruthless, cribbage sort of strategy it demands. If you like games, give this one to try.

May you be visited by a noble. LOL

Three

Looking for something super nummy this weekend? This is my new, I want a special dinner, way too delish recipe to trot out: Grilled Chicken with Red Pepper-Pecan Romesco Sauce  from Eating Well. I love their recipes, but this one is super good. Best part—it makes A LOT of sauce, which you can repurpose for pasta later on.

And if you are like me, you might just have the tomatoes in the garden.

Photo credit: Eating Well

Four

Time for another audiobook giveaway!

This time, I have five copies of Stealing the Bride up for grabs. You’ll need an Audiobook.com account to collect your prize, but that is free as well. To enter, just send in an email to contest@elizabethboyle.com. I’ll announce the winners next Thursday.

Five

Because I can, I have lots of fruit in the house, so it is inevitable that I end up with those wretched little fruit flies in my kitchen.

But I have a fool-proof way to get rid of them.

Grab a canning jar (LOL) or glass, and put a/3 cup of apple cider vinegar in it, a few drops of dishsoap, swirl it around, then cover the jar with plastic wrap, secure the wrap with either a rubber band or canning ring, and then poke a few small holes in the plastic with a skewer.

There you have it, the perfect DIY Fruit Fly Trap. Set it on the counter, then cackle with joy as those little pesky devils go to their doom.

Photo credit: Homespun Seasonal Living

As always, share something special with a friend—like this newsletter. Send someone a note. Read a great book. Tell the world. My wish for you and yours is that  your days and week ahead are filled with joy and kindness.

And please, wear a mask and register to vote.