Saturdays on the Porch #85
Catch up on summer style, home updates, favorite recipes, family moments, and life lately in Saturdays on the Porch #85.
Latest from OSH
- Saturdays on the Porch #85
- Easy European Wall Art with Thrift Store Frames
- Piano Bench Makeover with New Color and Fabric
- Style a Classic Coffee Table with Thrifted Items
- Simple Spring Vignette with Thrifted Vintage Decor
This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of my links, I may earn a small commission from the retailer costing you nothing more. You can read more on my disclosure page. Christy Little of Our Southern Home is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
Check out the most recent Saturdays on the Porch.
Saturdays on the Porch
Well, friends, it appears I accidentally took a rather extended break from Saturdays on the Porch! My last edition was back in February, and let's just say life got busy. Between family time, spring projects, travel planning, and everyday life, the weeks slipped by much faster than I intended.
As I pulled together photos for this post, I quickly realized there are a lot more fashion snapshots than usual. Apparently, while I wasn't writing Saturdays on the Porch, I was getting dressed and taking mirror selfies! So this edition is a little heavier on style inspiration, but don't worry—there are still plenty of delicious meals, home updates, and favorite finds sprinkled throughout.
Grab a glass of lemonade (or a glass of wine if you're reading later in the day), settle into a comfy chair, and let's catch up on what's been happening around Our Southern Home lately.
Lately on the Blog
European Style Thrifted Art Makeover
The Family Room
One of the biggest happenings around here recently was the arrival of our new family room furniture from Havertys. In what can only be described as perfect timing, I listed our existing sofa and loveseat on Facebook Marketplace back at the end of April, and they sold the very same day! Even better, the buyers picked everything up the night before the new furniture was scheduled to arrive. Talk about a smooth transition. There wasn't a moment of wondering where we'd put the old furniture or how we'd make room for the new pieces. Sometimes things just work out exactly as planned. The new furniture has given the room a fresh update while still fitting the classic, comfortable style that makes our house feel like home. I can't wait to share more once I finish styling the space.
This was a late in the day, quick cell phone snap, the day it came in.
Primary Bath
We've been working very slowly on a mini makeover of our 21-year-old primary bathroom. We aren't doing a full renovation, but rather updating the elements that will make the biggest impact. The old wallpaper has been removed, the walls have received a fresh coat of paint, and our beautiful new quartzite countertops were installed just last week, along with new sinks. We decided to keep our existing faucets since they're still in great shape, but I ordered fresh brass drains to coordinate with the new look. Those should arrive next week, and I'm very much looking forward to having a fully functioning sink plumbing again! At the moment, the biggest decision left is wallpaper. If you've been around here for a while, you know that's no small decision. Once I settle on the perfect paper, all that remains is a little decorating and styling. It's already looking so much brighter and fresher, and I can't wait to share the finished space with you.
More Around Our Home
One of the best changes we've made recently was bringing in our “new-to-us” dining table. While I loved our previous table, this one is a much better fit for the way we actually live and gather. With family dinners, Sunday lunches, and holiday meals, we needed a table that could comfortably accommodate everyone. It's amazing how one furniture change can make a room function so much better. Plus, I love the warmth and character it brings to the dining room.
I rarely show the bar corner of the dining room, and it's becoming one of my favorite little vignettes in the house. This collected space combines a few favorite pieces along with practical storage for entertaining. It's proof that even a small corner can add charm, personality, and function to a room. I especially enjoy decorating this area seasonally with flowers, greenery, and a few favorite accessories. Notice my favorite little rechargeable lamp.
The coffee table is often the hardest-working surface in our family room. It's where books, remotes, drinks, flowers, and occasionally a sleeping cat all seem to gather. It's also Phoebe's favorite spot to color and play with her stickers. I've been keeping the styling simple lately with a mix of books, collected accessories, and fresh greenery. I find that a coffee table feels most inviting when it's beautiful but still practical enough for everyday life. After all, this room is meant to be lived in and enjoyed. I especially love how the peonies from the garden are showing off.
The Look
One of my favorite things about getting dressed these days is creating a wardrobe that feels effortless, timeless, and truly me. I've been focusing on versatile pieces that mix and match beautifully, work for everyday life, and still feel polished whether I'm heading out for church, running errands, on a date night, or traveling.
Linen, soft knits, classic stripes, comfortable denim, and a great scarf are staples that never let me down. The recent outfits are a collection of recent favorites that have been on repeat in my closet. You'll find all of the sources linked below.
Neutral Batwing Sweater & Denim
This soft, neutral sweater has quickly become a favorite. The relaxed batwing silhouette drapes beautifully while still looking polished. Paired with straight-leg denim and classic ballet flats, it's an easy outfit that works for everything from casual to dressed up. I am wearing a small. Jeans and shoes are older, but I've linked similar ones.
Striped Cardigan & Black Wide-Leg Pants
You can't go wrong with black and white. This striped cardigan feels timeless and chic, while the wide-leg pants keep the look comfortable and modern. I added simple accessories for an effortless look that feels put together without trying too hard. I also own this cardigan in white. I've had them for a couple of years, and they wash well. I wear the white ALL the time! My favorite is buttoned up like this. I am wearing a size small. It is slightly shorter in length, which I like best on me.
The linen pants are several years old from Sam's Club, but Quince linen is even better! It's the kind of outfit I find myself reaching for repeatedly for movie theaters and airplane travel.
Linen Blazer & Silk Scarf
A lightweight linen blazer instantly elevates even the simplest outfit. I paired mine with denim, a white knit top, and my favorite silk scarf for a classic French-inspired look. The scarf adds just the right touch of color and personality. Shop the entire look.
Navy Linen Dress & Printed Kimono
This outfit combines two summer favorites: a simple linen dress and a lightweight printed topper. The kimono adds movement, color, and interest while still keeping the overall look easy and relaxed. I am wearing a medium in the dress. I have the sandals in 2 colors, and they are true to size. The kimono is no longer available.
Navy Linen Tank Dress
Sometimes simplicity wins. This navy linen dress is one of those pieces I reach for again and again. It's comfortable, flattering, and serves as the perfect blank canvas for jewelry, scarves, or lightweight layers. This necklace is a go-to for me for summer with its lean to a coastal vibe.
Blue and White Stripe Shirt & White Denim
A striped button-down shirt is one of the hardest-working pieces in my closet. Paired with white denim and neutral loafers, it creates a crisp, classic look that never goes out of style. I am wearing a size medium in the Quince button-down. Paired with a pop of green with the Amazon beaded necklace.
White Popover & Relaxed Black Pants
This combination feels modern, comfortable, and sophisticated. An oversized white shirt paired with relaxed black pants creates a polished outfit that's perfect for dinner out, travel days, or casual entertaining. I am wearing an 8 in the Ruti pants. This is the most expensive pair of pants that I have EVER purchased. They are worth every penny! I get compliments all the time. I also wore them all over Spain and Portugal.
Blue and White Floral Dress
This floral dress immediately caught my eye a couple of years ago. I bought it to wear to my DIL's baby shower that I hosted. The print feels timeless and feminine, and it's one of those easy dresses that requires very little styling. Just add simple sandals and a few accessories, and you're ready for brunch, church, or a summer gathering. I also wear it belted and have worn it with sneakers. It's generously sized. I am in a small. Anthropologie carries this dress all year long and just changes the patterns and colors.
Blue Chico's Shirt Dress
A shirt dress is several years old. This blue Chico's version is comfortable, flattering, and polished enough for many occasions. It is a Tencel fabric and is no longer available. I love pieces that feel put together with minimal effort. Chico's is always a win for dresses!
Beige Cardigan & Brown Ruti Pants
This outfit combines two of my favorite neutrals. The relaxed fit of the Ruti pants paired with a soft cardigan creates an elevated casual look that's comfortable without sacrificing style. The silk scarf adds just enough personality and color. Size small in sweater and 8 regular in pants.
Cream Lounge Set
I am always on the lookout for comfortable pieces that still look polished, especially for travel days and working from home. This cream lounge set checks all the boxes. It's cozy, flattering, and looks far more expensive than it is. I am wearing a size medium.
White Gauze Top & Black Linen Pants
You can never go wrong with black and white. This gauze top is lightweight and airy, while the black linen pants add a relaxed sophistication. The top was a splurge several years ago and so worth it! I wear it weekly. The linen pants are several years old from Sam's Club, but Quince linen is even better! It's the kind of outfit I find myself reaching for repeatedly during warmer months. The multi-strand turquoise necklace really elevates the entire look!
Amazon Gauze Robe
Of course, not every favorite look involves leaving the house. Sometimes the best pieces are the ones that make everyday moments feel a little more special.
This gauze robe has become one of my favorite little luxuries at home. It's lightweight, breathable, and incredibly soft—perfect for slow mornings with coffee on the porch or winding down in the evening. The relaxed fit feels comfortable without being bulky, and the gauze fabric gives it that effortless spa-like feel. If you're looking for a robe that works year-round, this one is definitely worth a look. It was a gift for Mother's Day, and I love it!
In the Kitchen
The melting tomatoes salmon recipe has been on repeat in our home for some time. I thought I'd share it again in case you have planted cherry or grape tomatoes.
This salad was a very happy creation! I love playing around with salads and pastas. I've been making a homemade champagne vinegrette that I must turn into a recipe for y'all. We chopped up some rotisserie chicken from Sam's Club and added a little crumbled bacon. The fun surprise was that I cubed a butternut squash and roasted it in the air fryer. It was so good and filling!
This pork tenderloin is always a hit with the family. I season it and have my husband sear it on the Blackstone (no mess on the stove), then finish it off in the oven. It is baked with lemon, butter, and powdered ranch dressing powder. The sauce is so good!!! It's another that I plan to work on sharing on the blog.
What I'm Reading
I love to read AND listen to books. If you are looking for a way to get more steps in with your walking…..listen to books! You will want to keep walking to listen. I also listen while doing chores around the house. I will use my earbuds while walking, While in the house I will use a Bluetooth speaker that I can carry around with me or our Alexa.
I read actual printed books as well as on Kindle. I prefer my Kindle, but holding a real book occasionally is nice.
I've had my Audible membership for a while, and LOVE it! It gives me one book credit per month.
Let me share how I read on Kindle and listen to books. Get yourself a library card!
Then add the LIBBY and HOOPLA apps to your phone.
I will typically check to see if a book is available there first before using my credit or buying. Using these 2 apps with your library card is FREE!!! I love FREE.
There may be a waitlist if it is a newer title or popular. That's ok. Sometimes the wait can be lengthy. If I'm not willing to wait, I will just purchase. If it is new or popular, you NEED to finish the book in the allowed checkout time. Sometimes you can renew, and sometimes you may have to get back in the queue. If that happens, when it is available again…..it will download where you left off.
Get in the habit of always carrying a book with you to get in a little extra time. That way if you are waiting at the doctor's office or to get your car serviced….you are prepared!
It was my goal to read more than 12 books last year, and I completed that task. Check out that list which has been updated with my thoughts on the books. Here is my list for 2024. This is the list of definites for the year. I have a goal of 36 books this year. I will sprinkle in lots of audiobooks as well. Here is an update for 2024.
- Currently listening on Audible: June Baby
- Currently Listening on Audible: The Keeper
- The Night We Lost Him
- We Are All Guilty Here
- Nobody's Girl
- The First Time I Saw Him (next read) This is book 2. Read The Last Thing He Told Me first. Book 1 was an Apple TV series starring Jennifer Gardner. It was really good, and has a season 2 starting in February. I love seeing books that I read turned into movies and TV shows.
- Speaking of books that I have read, going to the big screen: The Housemaid did not disappoint! On a whim, I went to the local movie theater solo to watch it. It is set up for a 2nd movie, so hopefully the movie franchise will continue. I have also now read the 2nd book installment, The Housemaid's Secret. The Housemaid's Wedding is a short story that you would read third in the series. I listened to it in Libby. It's like 1.5 hours so don't waste an Audible credit on it. Check out at the library.
- My sweet friend, Jennifer, from City Farmhouse, has her very first book published! I have received an advance copy. If you like a little romance along with home remodel and decorating taking place at the coast….you will love The Summer I Found You!!!! I am currently reading it as well. It was my daily read in Puerto Rico, watching the sunrise and by the pool.
What We've Bought
- We purchased this coffee keeper when we returned from Puerto Rico. It holds the entire 2-pound bag of beans that we brought home. It comes in several sizes and colors. We have the 39oz size.
- I also purchased these really small bottles for all the beach glass and mini shells that I found.
- I didn't know there was such a thing, but you can find almost anything on Amazon these days. I bought this set of travel floats to take to Puerto Rico with us. We used them daily in the pool. They are super easy to inflate and deflate. They folded flat in the bottom of our suitcase.
- I needed a new nail file. This one has done a great job of filing my nails and never leaves them jagged. It even has a cover for it.
- I finally found the perfect claw clip for my finer hair. It hold my hair all day and never slips! I need to get more colors now.
- If you wear glasses or even sunglasses, you need a box of these cleaning wipes. I take a handful when traveling and use them almost daily. They also work to clean phone and computer screens.
- I purchased a set of these gloves in a size medium with the 100 pack (50 pairs). They are great for cooking, cleaning, and crafting.
- I've finally found the perfect hand cream. I have it by the bed and use it before going to sleep.
Phoebe has graduated to some toddler pieces. She adores the Bluey set and mug that I got her. She can see them both HERE.
I bought this for transporting casseroles, but I've been using it a lot at home when I need to keep multiple dishes warm when prepping for Sunday lunches. It was wonderful for keeping a casserole warm for a bit.
Well, friends, I think that finally gets us caught up after my little Saturdays on the Porch hiatus! Looking through these photos reminded me just how much life has happened over the past few months—from family celebrations and home projects to outfit finds, good meals, and all the everyday moments in between. It's often the simple things that end up making the sweetest memories.
As always, thank you for spending part of your weekend here with me. Whether you've been visiting Our Southern Home for years or you're stopping by for the first time, I'm so grateful you're here. I truly enjoy sharing snippets of our life, home, and adventures with you each week.
Now I'm off to enjoy the rest of the weekend. Phoebe is spending the night with us and going to church in the morning. I've already showered and dried my hair in preparation for having no time in the morning. Ha, ha! It's been a long time since I've dressed with a toddler. I hope your weekend is filled with a little rest, a little joy, and plenty of time with the people you love.
Until next time, I'll meet you right back here on the porch.
❤️ Christy
Christy has been creating content for Our Southern Home since 2012. She has been featured in numerous print and online publications. Her classic, eclectic design approach spans her home and fashion style. Christy has a way of mixing store-bought with thrift store, antique and vintage finds. As a recent empty nester, she is having fun navigating this new stage of life. Read more about Christy HERE. Be sure to subscribe below. You can also contact me HERE.
