Category Archives: Dog Days of Summer

blogging, Dog Days of Summer, family fun, grilling, Hardware Store Life, holiday cooking, Home, Homemade Ice Cream, July, recipe, southern cooking, Southern food, southern living, Summer

Southern Sides for the BBQ Grilling Season

July 4, 2024 hardwarelifewife 5 Comments

The highest compliment a Southern cook can receive from someone is the request of their recipe after the meal. It means the dish was deliciously prepared and well received by those who ate it.

I must admit, when I have gotten a request for a recipe, I feel very honored. Today, I’m sharing a few of our family favorites from the summer BBQ grilling season. These side dishes are not revolutionary, but simple favorites that my family enjoys each July 4th.

So to celebrate the grilling season, let’s take a moment to reflect on the classic sides that have become proven favorites. We usually select Hamburgers and hotdogs each July 4th. Having great side items to accompany the best grilled burgers… well, that simply goes without saying. Happy grilling y’all!

A great rub can elevate your July 4th burgers to a new level. We sprinkle a bit of this one at home often to add a little extra touch of flavor. Yes, Wilkes County Hardware has this available in store!

Keegan recommends to add a splash of Sauce to your hotdog!

Baked Beans

My Mama spoiled me. I didn’t realize that fact, but these baked beans have been a staple cookout food ever since I was younger. I am not accustomed to baked beans without meat. Baked beans without hamburger, well that’s just a plain old seasoned bean!!! Like I stated before, my Mama spoiled me with this recipe, so all other baked beans haven’t measured up to Mom’s.

My Mama always made the easiest, and the best baked beans that we all loved, and we still do! Leftovers are rare. The recipe, in the mind. Not written down at all, because it’s a simple recipe to make, using pantry staples. I hope you enjoy!

Mom’s Baked Beans

Ingredients List

1/2-3/4 lb hamburger (cooked)

1T Dried onion

2T Worcestershire sauce ( I adjust the amount I use based on hamburger, making sure all the hamburger is coated with the Worcestershire sauce)

2 Cans Pork Beans

2 T Pancake syrup (depending on how much sweetness you prefer)

1c Ketchup

Simple Steps to A Great Side

1. Fry and crumble hamburger meat well in the skillet, as the hamburger cooks, add dried onions (1 T)

2. Drain hamburger grease prior to adding additional ingredients.

3. Add Worcestershire sauce to hamburger meat once the hamburger meat has browned. Stir well.

4. Turn heat down on skillet/ sauce pan and add pork and beans. Combine the hamburger and beans evenly.

5. Add pancake syrup for a bit of sweetness. Stir well.

Stir the syrup into the bean/hamburger mixture prior to adding the ketchup

6. Add ketchup. Simmer until beans are warmed and tender (20-30 minutes)

I adjust ketchup level to change the color ratio from a pork bean color to a more traditional baked bean color… adding more as needed I typically just squeeze in the ketchup and stir until I’m satisfied with the color. Note the difference between the two photos

Larry Patterson’s Hot Dog Chili

This recipe was gifted to Mom years ago by her friend, Larry. It was an instant family favorite after she made it the first time. Mom shared it with me several years ago and it has become a staple of our summer cookouts. It does require a bit of time to simmer on the stove top, but it’s worth the wait!

Honestly, it’s hard to go back to a canned hot dog chili once you have had a good homemade chili. This recipe is even better on day two… the longer it sits, the spices have a chance to simmer and get into the chili. I love this one on BOTH hamburgers or hotdogs! it freezes well and I half this recipe often.

What are your favorite “must have” items that you put on a hotdog? 🌭

Ingredients

2lbs. Ground hamburger

2t chili powder

2t black pepper

1T Texas Pete

1/2c Ketchup

1c water

Simple Steps to Chili

1. Crumble raw hamburger into large saucepan.

2. Add all spices and Texas Pete to raw hamburger

3. Add Ketchup and water.

4. Stir well and simmer 3-4 hours stirring occasionally.

Fresh Squeezed Lemonade

This recipe is based on my pitcher size I typically use.

3 large lemons

1 cup boiling water

1 cup sugar

2 cups ice

4 cups water

Steps to Making Sweet Lemonade

1. Boil 1 cup water. Add sugar to dissolve into water. Allow to cool.

2. Extract juice from 3- 4 large lemons.

3. Once sugar syrup is dissolved and cooled, add to pitcher with lemon juice.

4. Add 4 cups cold water. Stir in 2 cups of ice. Add a few lemon slices to the top. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Whether you are enjoying the July 4th holiday cookout or just grilling out for the weekend, I hope you find these simple recipes a great addition to your BBQ fun!

AND Don’t forget the ice cream!!!

Southern Summer… Making Homemade Ice Cream

blogging, Dog Days of Summer, finding inspiration, flowers, garden, gardening, hardware store, Hardware Store Life, Home, June, memories, Natural World, old hardware stores, photography favorites, pools, seashells, Shop Local, southern living, Summer, summer garden, Summer Photography, Summer Watering Tips, sunrise photography

June Memories Photographed

June 27, 2024 hardwarelifewife Leave a comment

The month of June is the gateway to Summer. Here’s a glimpse of summer so far in the hardware life.

A bit of sunshine and color… totem pole is complete! A huge Thank You going out to Kim Reid for her patience and expertise, this came together beautifully! And yes, your local hardware store can help you with this project! More to come on this later!!

The Mountains are calling and I must go….

**Good morning Blue Ridge Mountains Sunrise in progress**

Other June Favorites

An Overview of Hardware Store Happenings in June

**New summer t-shirts are selling fast!**

**Anyone ready for some homemade ice cream???** Southern Summer… Making Homemade Ice Cream

**Restock of Goat Milk Soap! This product is an amazing seller!!!**

**Blue Door Houses and more, by Kim Reid… these are selling quickly!**

**Mid June brought drought like conditions…** Summer Watering Tips

**Ready for canning season??? We got y’all covered!**

**Reset complete! Wow!!! What a job that was… moving cleaning, canning, outdoor grilling… but well worth it!!!**

**Pools are big part of summer season inside Wilkes County Hardware** Family Splashing Fun-Pool Days of Summer

Saturday morning bunny visitor. He had escaped from his cage from his home nearby the pool that we do daily maintenance for. After a few uncertain hours, we found his home! Thanks to all who reached out to help him get back home safely!

**This month has been a busy month in the garden/yard! Thanks for stopping by to pick up weed control, pest control options… and much more! Thanks for shopping local!**

blogging, customer service, Dog Days of Summer, family, family fun, hardware store, Hardware Store Life, June, Pool Maintenance, pools, southern living, Summer, Summer Photography

Family Splashing Fun-Pool Days of Summer

June 8, 2024 hardwarelifewife Leave a comment

School is out and the fun days of summer are upon us! Summer days can be spent with family and friends splashing in the sun by the pool. Those pool days can offer a bit a relaxation or a “mini”vacation day, even if it’s at your local community pool or home pool.

The calming mind-body response to a pool or a lake view creates, the “rest and digest” effect, originating in the parasympathetic nervous system. Think about it…connecting back to the water, the sounds of water … aids in relaxation, digestion, and can even lower blood pressure,and your heart rate. I’ll take that oasis of good health all day long!

But before the splashing of summer fun can begin, let’s address the elephant in the room. Owning a pool requires constant maintenance.

In just the last week, the questions are rolling in with the ever moving target of pool maintenance. So let’s take a moment to consider a few common scenarios and keys to safely have fun all summer long. Hopefully these pieces of information might be useful to you as a pool owner or even as a casual visitor to your local pool in search of a relaxing oasis for a brief moment this summer.

Testing the Water

I can recount the numerous times that Dad asked me to go check and complete the quick pool chemistry test for the family pool. Dad taught both my sister and I how to do some of the basic maintenance tasks involved in having a pool. One of those necessary tasks, checking the pool chemistry basics…chlorine levels and PH.

I used a kit similar to this one many times as a kid growing up at home!

Everyone pitched in and helped with keeping the pool water clean, and clear…all the while, maintaining that beautiful, wavy-blue color. We wanted to be ready to swim all summer long with NO green slimy algae growing. It was a lot of work! Scrubbing the side walls, vacuuming the pool, scooping leaves, whatever needed to be done🤪.

**This photograph was a winner for me at Wilkes Art Gallery Photography Exhibition January 2024-1st Place Everyday Life Photography entitled, Walking on Water**

Dad made sure to stay on top of the necessary pool maintenance tasks so that our pool days were fun-filled to balance out all that work…Volleyball games in pool, floating around the pool, basking in the sunshine listening to the latest music tunes on the radio… life couldn’t have been any better! Those are some great pool memories and always look forward to the summer pool season each year, as it offers another way to unwind and relax, and spending time with family.

Chlorine Maintenance

Let’s get back to the task at hand.. Often, our pool customers ask Richard about their pool water and how to keep it chemically balanced all summer long. It’s a delicate balance of maintaining a clean sanitized pool. Having the right tools, equipment, chemicals, and knowledge is crucial to a pool owner.

Here are a few common key factors that will influence the chlorine levels and the PH of the pool water… sun, rain, and heavy use of the pool.

Our pool water testing is complimentary to our customers. No charge for this service!

We often have a collection of empty water bottles and jars by the end of the summer pool season.

Knowing that these three factors (sun, rain, usage) dramatically influence your pool water chemistry, being proactive about your pool chemistry is key. Stay on top of your cleaning and maintenance routines in regard to your pool. Wilkes County Hardware has all the basics you will need for your pool swimming fun all season long… Chlorine, Baking Soda, Algaecide, calcium and more!

Pool Chemicals 101

Another common question thread that we get from our pool customers is how to use these chemicals correctly. Some pool chemicals require a process of stirring and mixing with water prior to pouring into the pool. This process aids in dissolving and a better even distribution of chemicals.

Always use a bucket to stir up chlorine… often times he will use a bucket to stir up other types of pool chemicals as well to ensure even distribution into pool as to not have it sink to bottom.., as this photo demonstrates (see description below for full details)

In order to use granular chlorine effectively, take a clean 5 gallon bucket add some pool water then add granular chlorine. You never want to add water after the granular chlorine, it could create a volatile reaction!!!! Always begin with water. Stir mixture … 15-30 seconds … with a suitable “stick” (wooden paddle, handle, pvc pipe). Pour about half mixture into pool and add in more pool water into bucket and stir again. Pour remaining granular chlorine solution into pool.

Granular pool shock MUST be dissolved using water/bucket method prior to pouring into pool. This is a fast way to boost your chlorine levels like… after a fun pool party to raise your chlorine levels back to where you need it to be.

Chlorine tablets are a great way to **SLOW release** chemicals into your pool, long term. These dissolve in pool over time.

**Liquid chlorine… FAST action and convenient way to boost your chlorine levels and no mixing in a bucket! You can pour straight into your pool.** **One gallon is equivalent to about one granular shock**

Baking soda will help you correct your PH levels when the PH level is too low.

Pool owners can use and Dilute in water … Muriatic Acid to lower alkalinity and PH levels.

***Have fun swimming safely all summer long! Stop by and pick up a new summer shirt at Wilkes County Hardware***

Pool Swim Safety Tips:

1. Never swim alone -swim with a buddy always

2. Be mindful of opening and closing times at your community pool or public pool. AND yes, even when you are on vacation as well! Pool chemistry is checked at least once a day (usually before opening each day). Chemicals are often added prior to opening/closing each day and time is a factor! Give the pool chemicals time to work properly and swim safely without the worry of harsh pool chemicals impacting your skin.

3. Obey all pool rules. This one might be obvious but definitely crucial for a safe swimming environment.

4. Be mindful of drains and skimmers. Stay away from these areas as you swim. Educate your children about these areas as well.

5. Protect your skin! Use proper sunscreen and enjoy your pool day.

6. Avoid night swimming… pool areas should be well lit and have lights installed in the pool for SAFE night swimming. This rule applies back to basic pool hours noted at your public swimming pool, community pool or your vacation swimming pool fun.

7. Roughhousing and running around the pool area creates safety concerns. This also includes the safety equipment, like hanging on the safety rope. The safety rope has to be in place at public pools to designate the shift from shallow to deep water in the pool. If it is damaged, the pool may have to close. 😬

8. Stay weather aware. Summer storms are frequent throughout our area. If you hear thunder, it’s time to get out of the pool.

9. Come prepared. Take the essentials: towels, sunscreen, phone (in case of emergency) water (hydration), first aid supplies (bee stings, cuts etc) and of course the best pool snacks!

10. Lastly, keep watchful eyes on all children in the pool, even though they maybe good swimmers. Accidents can happen can occur instantly.

Dog Days of Summer, flowers, garden, hardware store, Hardware Store Life, Homemade Ice Cream, July, Natural World, old hardware stores, pools, recipe, seaonal change, Sonker, southern cooking, southern living, Summer, Summer Fruits

Fine Tuning…The Dog Days of Summer… Yes, “Siriusly”

July 2, 2023 hardwarelifewife Leave a comment

Did you know that Sirius XM radio name originated from the star Sirius, also known as “ The Dog Star”???

Y’all know when The Dog Days of Summer time of year has come, the weather can be intense. Once these days arrive, they can be long and sweltering. Dog Days can be an unbelievably unpleasant portion of the humid Southern summer season… akin to a dog’s wet tongue wagging endlessly to cool down or the literal feeling of being slapped in the face with a wet washcloth when walking outside.

During the **Dog Days of Summer**, the temperature can climb well into the 90’s with high levels of humidity too! Ugh!

**WCH Recommends:** A good working thermometer will help you know what to expect during the hottest days of summer.

“Sirius” Facts: Things You Should Know About Dog Days of Summer

1. The Dog Days of Summer begins each year on July 3rd and extends until August 11th.

2. The Dog Days of Summer lasts for 40 days, and it can be some of the hottest days of the summer season.

3. The name, The Dog Days of Summer, refers to the time shortly after the summer solstice and the appearance of the “Dog Star”, Sirius, rising in the summer sky.

No, the name “**Dog Days”** truly has nothing to do with your cute little dog. It’s all about what’s happening in the morning sky. Times have changed from the perspective of the Greeks and Romans, thoughts about ***Dog Days*** but the name has lingered.

“Sirius Superstitions”: Dog Days of Summer

1. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that Dog Days were a time of bad luck, and drought. The long, hot days of summer could drive men and dogs “mad”… Here are a few superstitions that I found interesting while researching The Dog Days of Summer.

2. Snakes will strike at anything during Dog Days for they are blinded. Be wary as you trek outdoors during these 40 days!

3. If it rains on July 3rd, on the first Dog Day, then more rain will follow.

4. Dogs are likely to go mad during Dog Days.

5. Wounds will not heal properly during Dog Days, the old wives tale suggests that one should put off surgeries until after Dog Days have passed.

6. People are more prone to drowning during Dog Days.

Pool swimming safety is always important all summer long. Swim safely by keeping your pool water clean and sanitized, and never swim alone.

Now that the calendar has hit July 3rd, and The Dog Days of Summer have arrived, how can we all stay in “cool” state of mind all summer long??? Check out the next few sections of the blog for some helpful tips.

AC Cooling Tips: Dog Days of Summer

1. Keep your furnace filters clean! Remember to change your furnace filters once a month!

Wilkes County Hardware has a vast selection of many sizes of filters! Ask us to find your size for you.

2. Try not to place your furniture on your vents, reduced air flow will make your unit work harder. Close blinds or curtains during the day to keep the excess summer heat out.

3. Remember to keep your vents open to allow good airflow throughout your 🏡 home. This helps your AC unit to work properly.

4. Stop by into Wilkes County Hardware and buy a whole box 📦 of filters at once! Plan ahead, saving time and another trip to town🚗. If you don’t see your exact size?? Ask us to order your size!

5. Changing out your furnace filters regularly may save you a bundle in the long run… Spend the money on a filter each month to keep your unit working effectively and stay cool all summer long.

Hydrate!!! Watering tips for your flower garden: Dog Days of Summer

1. Water in early morning or evening. Rain water is ideal, but not always going to happen everyday.

2. For your beautiful container plants, watering daily might be necessary!

**WCH Recommends:** Zero G! This is a lightweight water hose that makes watering an easy chore in the summer.

3. New additions to your garden will need extra TLC. Be ready to monitor them closely and anticipate watering these new plants more frequently than established plants in your garden.

**WCH Recommends:** A good watering can goes a long way during ***The Dog Days of Summer***

4. Water any plant thoroughly if signs of wilt begins. The plant will be under great stress and needs an immediate boost.

5. Water plants and flowers from the base not from the top. Use a watering wand, watering can, or a sprayer that can help you achieve success.

**WCH Recommends:** Watering wands extend the length of your hose and allows for less bending in the garden.

6. If you are using a heavier water hose to water your summer blooms, move your hose in place before turning on the water flow to make it easier to maneuver.

**WCH Recommends:** These hoses are heavy duty and ready to go the distance you need.

Pool Splashing Fun: Dog Days of Summer

Pools are a great way to cool off in the hot, sultry, humid Dog Days of Summer.

1. Pool maintenance is an ongoing process all summer long, even on the hottest days of summer. Chemical reagents that you use to check chlorine & PH need to be replaced each year! If your pool water seems a little bit off and you can’t seem to get a good balance of chlorine & PH, check your reagents!

**WCH Recommends:** Replace your test kit each year to allow for accurate testing results.

**WCH Recommends:** Pool owners should be well stocked on various chemicals needed in order to swim safely all summer long. Stop by WCH to stock back up.

2. Your pool will take some abuse during the Dog Days of Summer with the intense summer heat and pop-up afternoon thunderstorms. PH and chlorine levels can dive down into dangerous levels if left unchecked. Stop in with a water sample for a FREE water analysis and pick up the chemicals you might need in order to keep swimming safely all summer long!

Tips on Beating the Heat During Dog Days of Summer… Just for Fun 😎

1. Make homemade ice cream during Dog Days. Find the link below for Homemade Ice Cream.

https://hardwarelifewife.com/2022/06/27/southern-summer-making-homemade-ice-cream/

2. Create a Summer Playlist full of your summer favorite songs.

3. Watch your Summer Favorite Movies 🍿 or head to our local Liberty movie theater to enjoy one of the Free Movies each week. I’m definitely going to check out this movie by Al Pacino, Dog Day Afternoon that a friend just told me about.

4. Get outside and put your shades on!!! Enjoy some summer sunshine!

**WCH Recommends:** You can’t beat $3.99 for a pair of shades! Make sure you have bug spray and sunscreen too!

5. Take the kids or grandkids and go pick some summer fruit… blueberries, blackberries, or peaches!

6. Make a Sonker with your fruit picking finds. Find the link below for recipe for Summer Sonker.

https://hardwarelifewife.com/2022/07/26/sonker-summers/

7. Stop by and visit us at Wilkes County Hardware of course! Our doors are always open in the summer, take a seat in a rocking chair, and enjoy the breeze. We keep our drink coolers well stocked with Gatorade and bottled water as well as other drinks. Hydrate and simply relax!

Celebrating the End Of Dog Days of Summer

The Hardware Life – A wife's journey into the hardware business