August 2025- “Cherished Choices”
Letting Go Graciously…
“CHERISHED CHOICES” Links and Descriptions Detailed Below
Open image to click for link to your favorite “Cherished Choice”
August typically brings expectations of hot weather, as it is often the warmest month of the year in many regions. Additionally, this month marks a significant change and the introduction of new routines. I find the transition from summer to fall brings many people together as they prepare for back-to-school activities, college move-ins, and the harvest season.
The Lasts Before the Firsts...
Like many of us this summer, I'm finding myself in another season of transition. A season of beginnings and, well, even endings. I just recently read some wise words in my morning devotion- "many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first." These words really hit home because, for me, it's a summer of lasts before many more firsts, as we become empty nesters and make life-changing moves in marriage and enter into a semi-retirement era. This evident change is exciting, yet bittersweet and intimidating all at the same time. I'm sure many of you can relate to this feeling of transition.
We've been busy over here—with last-minute trips, making lists, making plans, and graciously accepting the change we can't control. I'm in a proud, yet I'm undone phase. I'm learning what it means to let go, to believe, while still maintaining faith and holding on. My devotion made me realize that too often, we miss the meaning of the word "believe." It's a Greek word that literally means "to trust," or "to have faith," or "to depend." That is why Jesus asks us to "believe"; He is also asking us to trust or depend on Him. This truly is commitment. It made me realize that many of us might be navigating similar emotions.
As my girls are making big moves in their lives, we are doing the same as parents. I'm a mom standing on the edge of change. There is a deep understanding in them that they know I will always be their biggest fan, a constant. Now go fly high and live. It's a beautiful, bittersweet time, something that's unspoken yet deeply felt by us all. So, part of me is holding on. Part of me letting go. I have found that I'm holding onto what holds me - my home.
Celebrating the power your home holds...
Through every phase of life, I've tried to make our home feel like a place to gather, especially in our kitchen. Our family table tells our story, and now, I find myself wondering: What will my kitchen feel like with fewer plates? Less laughter? Less chatter about your day? Honestly, I don't know yet. I'm preparing as best I can. But for now, at the end of this summer, there will be many celebrated dinners.
So, to savor the end of summer, many significant changes are slowly occurring. I'm taking a few last-minute trips to visit my daughter in Montana and attending a long-awaited concert with my hubby. All while cooking, organizing, and even doing some shopping therapy, and adding some fall essentials to our home. So I am delighted to share all my cherished finds with you all.
Final Thoughts:
Celebrating the 4 G's...
Grief, Grace, Gratitude, and GROWTH...
Home should never be just a place. The people we become within its walls are defined; the memories we make and the love we carry through every chapter of life are stored within its walls. It's who we are, who we've raised, and how we show up for each other, again and again.
Even if the house feels quieter these days, our story keeps unfolding.
But even as the rooms shift and the rhythms change, the heart of our home holds steady. The traditions, the laughter, the love—they don't leave with the packed bags. They simply take on a new shape. And I'm learning to trust that. To believe that love expands beyond walls. That letting go doesn't mean letting go of everything. It means holding onto your grief, embracing grace, finding gratitude in what you've built, and continuing to grow and be excited about what the future holds.
And maybe—for now—that's enough. That's why Cherished Choices' monthly blog post is invaluable. My hope is that it resonates with each of you and makes you feel less alone, especially as you might be making big moves and experiencing mixed emotions that come with significant changes.
August “CHERISHED CHOICES” Details & Links-
Lets start with my THERAPY SHOPPING HAUL from Target…
Wood and Brass Finish Twine Holder $29.99- This twine holder caught my eye and was in my cart in minutes. It prompted a little kitchen counter top refresh. Made of metal, this twine holder is designed in a brass finish for an old-style, vintage charm. The holder features a top notch with a sleek cutout for knot-free dispensing of the twine, while the wooden base supports easy stability. Perfect for gift wrapping, DIY arts and crafts, the kitchen, and more, it's a great addition to your home organization.
Footed Marble Countertop Tray $24.99- Found this beauty to hold my new countertop refresh finds. It features a warm beige marble top and a circular footed base in a natural wood finish for an elevated look.
Marble Stacking Salt & Pepper Cellar $16.99- This 3-Piece Marble Stacking Salt and Pepper Cellar is perfect for storing salt and pepper for cooking and serving. The condiment cellar set is a beautiful design that consists of two 2.82-ounce containers, one made of white marble and the other with white and beige marble striations, along with a brown wooden lid.
The Original Greek Pepper Mill $56- A unique piece of European tradition.One of my favorite handmade kitchen finds. While other mills simply crush the peppercorns, this unique grinding mechanism grabs each peppercorn and breaks it in half, then breaks each piece into even smaller pieces, maximizing flavor and aroma. Based on a coffee mill that was used by Greek soldiers in the early 20th century, the design includes a flanged base for stability and a durable all-metal body. The tool steel grinding mechanism adjusts from fine to coarse. Available in copper and brass.
Favorite Candle $30- We just cannot get enough of Amber Vales candles. This one is wonderful and just setting the mood as we head into fall. Enjoy this long burning clean candle with natural soy wax and coconut wax blend.
Pleated Ceramic Vase $19.99- This vase was my second favorite find during my Target haul. It immediately went into my cart. This sour cream-color vase is timeless and can be used all year long. It features a pleated design with dark hues for a rustic finish.
Quince Floral Stems $9.99- I found these stems to fill the tall pleated vase. They are 36” stems that create a rich autumn color palette that makes any fall design stunning. This centerpiece filled with several branches will create an over-the-top focal point piece.
10” Clear Cloche $24.99- Another Target score. This glass cloche allows you to display small figurines, collectibles, indoor plants, and artificial floral arrangements. Featuring a classic transparent dome design with a ribbed outer surface for clearly showcasing objects from the outside, it has a knob on top for easy lifting.
Ribbed Flameless Candles $29.99- Last but not least. I found these amazong flameless candles at Target. Perfect to addition to any decor. They will add soothing ambiance to any room. Designed with realistic LED flames, these flameless candles cast a soft, warm glow for a cozy feel. These candles are made of paraffin wax and feature a ribbed design, and they required 12 AAA batteries (not included).
Glass Dispensers $10.74- My finds this month were unexpectedly found when I was on the mad search for pump dispensers and baking storage. Well, I found some incredible solutions. Add sustainable style to your décor with these dispenser. Adorned with pre-applied waterproof decals this dispenser can be used for refilling your laundry detergent, pantry items, pet supplements, and more. They hold up to 64 oz. of liquid detergent.
Baking Storage Set $69.99- The ProKeeper+ Bakers Storage set is the best pantry food storage system! They are airtight containers that are uniquely customized for baking ingredients, includes measurement markings, and the stackable containers are designed with easy-catch lids and a silicone seal for airtight storage. With this stylish storage set, your pantry will take the cake! I promise a necessity. They will not disappoint!
Vintage Wall Hooks $38- Organize an entry, mudroom, or bathroom in traditional style with the Duke Antique Brass Metal Wall Hooks. These distressed metal hook racks are available in three sizes and feature a hand-applied, antique brass finish. The wide shoulder of the bottom hook more evenly distributes the weight of a coat while the top hook features a traditional finial style, ideal for a hat or bag.
Barstools $682- I have been searching for the perfect barstool. Boy, did I ever find them. They are a solid oak counter stool defined by tapered legs and framing that gives an updated look to the classic whistler chair. Finished with a paper rush wrapped detail on the back. They are one-of-a kind!
Wood Gallery Wall Frames $223- Ordered this set to add all our families treasured photos from our summer trips and activities. This set of frames is made from real basswood and is manufactured in the USA. Using real glass allows your pictures to stay pristine. Each frame is made to order, ensuring you are given the highest quality.
Francois Bird Paper Tapestry $328- Worth the splurge. 100% printed paper with oak wood dowel finished with stain. you have to see it in person. It has an artisan variance in paper and is meant to look vintage.
Good American Jeans $158- Fall is coming and a trip to Montana. Had to find the perfect jean for my upcoming trip and cooler weather and I did.
Floral Quilted Jacket $37.99- Found this Fee People dupe for my Montana trip. When it arrived I was so surprised in its quality and how stylish the jacket was with its vibrant colors. I love the reversible design with the pockets on both sides. It is comfortable, super soft, and good quality for the price, perfect for fall and winter in southern states.
New Balance Sneakers $99.99- Had to share my go to travel sneakers. Also great to run around town in…Heritage details meet modern attitude in a '70s-throwback running shoe reissued as a standout street sneaker. Suede overlays keep the look bold and sneakerhead-savvy, while the heavily nubbed tread wraps up the toe and heel for a performance vibe that's impossible to miss whether you're coming or going. The best!
