Here’s What’s Up: Fall Events and Trends to Know

I have said before that one of my favourite things in the whole world is boiled fresh groundnuts with that warm, traditional aroma. I’ve also mentioned my love for coconut and for this marriageable fish soup. Ahh.

Imagine my delight when, on Saturday, Mr N and I found fresh groundnuts at the farmers’ market. They seemed to call our names, so we bought two plastic bags straight from the farm. Does life get any better? I couldn’t wait to get home and boil them. Since then it’s been boil groundnuts, eat, repeat.

Of course, life keeps rolling on—kids, homeschooling, meals, laundry, and everything in between. Excuse my burst of silliness. If you love boiled groundnuts as much as I do, you’ll understand: those nuts are golden.

It’s fall, and my yard is carpeted with leaves falling from the trees.

fall-in-minnesota

Today the older girls decided to rake some of the leaves while their baby sister slept.

kids-playing-out-in-the-fall

And then, of course, this happened.

playing-in-fall-leaves

It always does when kids are involved—play, laughter, and the unexpected.

On a different note, a reader recently critiqued my choice to present ice cream in an old pan. I replied that it was intentional: many food photographers use distressed, vintage props to add character and tell a story. I understand not everyone finds that presentable, but I’m drawn to the warmth and history old pieces bring to a photo.

Over the weekend I picked up an ancient-looking pan from a thrift store; I’ll use it in a recipe and share it with you soon.

old-pan-for-food-phoography

I’m curious—do you prefer old, character-filled pans in food photos, or do you lean toward new and shiny cookware?

On a solemn note, there were several tragic accidents in Cameroon last week. My prayers are with the families affected. May they find comfort and small glimmers of light in these dark times.

“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.” Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT).

That’s what’s up. Have a great week!