Category Archives: Summer

blogging, garden, gardening, Hardware Store Life, Home, May, Natural World, Shop Local, southern living, Spring, Spring Gardening, Summer

Critter Riddle

May 14, 2024 hardwarelifewife 1 Comment

The morning car ride to work is a short drive for me. I’m typically running errands on the way into work, or making phone calls to family…catching up on the latest comings and goings.

This particular morning, I had just left home and the car radio was on and that’s pretty standard. The radio is soothing background noise. What grabbed my attention that morning was the intense discussion between the two DJ’s about the word CRITTER. The opinions were definitely opposed.

“All Creatures, ‘CRITTERS’, great and small…”

One of the DJ’s was intent upon using the word as a negative term in regard to describe an animal/pest situation, such as a mouse or rat. The other DJ debated the word CRITTER as a way to describe any animal. I was inclined towards the later view.

What I gathered from that brief discussion was I never had really thought about that word origin before… was this word, CRITTER a true Southern thing? What is a CRITTER???

According to the dictionary, the definition of CRITTER actually refers to any type animal or creature… all creatures, great and small. The word derives from the term, Creature, as a variation… in regional dialect format. The word first appeared in the early 1800’s in literature as a derivative of creature.

I’m not really sure what I think about this word after my last encounter with the critters of the belly crawling type… lizards and snakes this past weekend😳. My first encounter with a lizard was short, and shocking to both of us. As I dug into an old flower pot, digging out the old roots with ungloved hands, as I began to pull up and out with the old root system, a lizard emerged!!

He was stunned as was I. The “critter” lizard was simply lying on the driveway unmoved. As the shock waves wore off that I had unearthed a lizard, my lesson in grabbing my gloves was brought back to view.

Lesson learned: Grab your gloves before heading into the garden especially when pulling weeds, or digging into areas that are unknown 😳. Wilkes County Hardware has gardening gloves available at great prices!

My other “belly crawling critter” of the snake type, has been spotted in my front flower bed. Ugh!!! Action has been taken to hopefully keep the snake from returning. My eyes are constantly peeled to keep any crawling critters in full view as I walk up the front sidewalk. I think I would actually call him, Mr. Snake, a “varmint” or pest instead of a critter.

Wilkes County Hardware has these available if you need them!

I must confess, my brain went to work quickly on this radio banter probably because we tend to deal a lot with pest control issues/ repellents inside the hardware store.

Folks tend to fall into two camps, as they are dealing with CRITTER issues… repel or embrace/make peace or coexistence with the Critters, making it a bit of Riddle. Which path to take???

Don’t get me wrong… Critters and PESTS are two different things in my mind. Pests can be destructive if action isn’t taken. The question, one must answer is the Critter becoming “Pest Like”??? In order to solve the CRITTER RIDDLE, and make the decisions that are necessary for all critters involved, both should be taken into consideration.

Case in point, Deer. What I have found is that some people welcome the deer into their yards by feeding these critters with offerings of deer corn, or other foods, providing a food source instead of hopefully letting the “critter deer” feast upon the tender garden plants themselves.

Others, repel the “critter deer” away from the delicate gardens in hopes that they will go elsewhere for a yummy treat. The Riddle… requires a bit of ingenuity of what will work well for that critter in order to achieve the desired outcome for each homeowner. Critter v. pest???

Which leads me to ask the question… How do you view that word, CRITTER??? It might not be mind boggling stuff, but maybe an exercise in how we view the outer natural world. A riddle of nature itself.

A new journey begins, August, bucket list, flowers, Foggy Morning, Hardware Store Life, southern cooking, southern living, Summer, Summer Photography

Everyday Summer Gallery

August 19, 2023 hardwarelifewife Leave a comment

Summer is yet another season. Many of y’all may not enjoy the hottest months of the year, but don’t forget to savor the memories you make each and every day with those you love. Each photo I have taken has a connection to those I love, even though it may not a visible sign to you as you view each image. I hope you enjoy my favorite collection of summer 2023 photographs and remember to enjoy each day.

Summer is simply incomplete without the best fresh fruit

This little zinnia was too cute not to capture, simply imperfect but stunning at the same time

Our new mural was completed this summer outside the hardware store

Summer in Wilkes County, cut hay, roll it and putting it up

The Blue Ridge Mountains, storm is coming

Heavy August Morning Fog… Foggy mornings in August could indicate the snowfall forecast for our coming winter season

Summertime Vacay… a walk along a pier to find this Oldie Goldie

Kudzu blooming is aromatic and distinctive

almanac gardening, garden, Hardware Store Life, July, southern living, Summer

July Gardening Guide

July 11, 2023 hardwarelifewife Leave a comment

https://hardwarelifewife.com/2023/07/02/fine-tuningthe-dog-days-of-summer-yes-siriusly/

July is a bountiful time in the garden. All of your hard work that has been done thus far, is now rewarded with beautiful blooms and hopefully a bountiful summer veggie and fruit harvest.

July is also a time of the dreaded heat… the Dog Days of Summer has begun! The days can often be sweltering. (Find the link above on my blog about the Dog Days of Summer) It is easy to retreat inside and enjoy the air conditioning grandiose glory, and as a result, your garden may begin to suffer under the abuse of the intense sun and heat. Don’t get discouraged though! Check out the following tips and best days to garden for July.

July Best Days To Plant or Transplant:

July 6-7

July 10-12

July 15-17

July 23-26

July Best Days to Weed

July 13-14

July 18-22

July 27-28

July 31

July Garden Tips:

1. Water well- especially your containers. These will dry out very quickly! Smaller pots dry out much faster than larger ones! You may need to water these every day if rainfall is insufficient. Water them throughly from the base not from the top down.

WCH Recommends: Zero G water hose for a lightweight water hose for summer watering.

2. Walk your garden frequently to monitor… weeds, and pests. I try to walk in my yard several times a week after dinner to evaluate any new potential problems.

This has been a very popular item for summer gardens, sadly!!!

3. It’s hot, but don’t forget that weeds grow in those humid summer days too! July Weed control is important to keep up and add layer of mulch to prevent future weeds from growing.

4. Deal with pests and insects in your garden quickly to prevent further damage, stop by Wilkes County Hardware to see what options you have available to keep your garden growing all summer long!

From fungal diseases to pest control problems in your summer garden, we can help you find what you need! We keep a great selection of lawn and garden care products. If you don’t see what you need, ask us to order it for you!

5. Deadhead flowers and apply fertilizer when necessary.

An amazing liquid fertilizer! Now on sale for 9.99!!!

6. Remove spent spring or early summer plants and replace or replant.

7. Plan your fall garden: begin seeds indoors or in shady areas of your garden.

Now is a fantastic time to purchase your seeds for your fall favorites!

8. Divide irises in late July.

9. Enjoy the harvest! It’s time to gather some fresh veggies or flowers this month!

Nothing better than an amazing peach from your local farmers market or orchard in July. Please don’t forget to shop local… all the ways that you can!

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

August 11th marks the official end of the ***Dog Days of Summer.*** Celebrate the end of the hottest days of summer! This year, I’ll play the song, *The Dog Days Are Over by Florence and the Machine on August 11th, will you join me?*

dessert, Hardware Store Life, Home, June, pound cake, southern cooking, southern living, Summer

Pound Cake, A Southern Staple

June 21, 2023 hardwarelifewife 7 Comments

Southern Living 101:

Front porch swings, and rocking chairs with a slight breeze blowing.. can’t you smell the fried chicken cooking inside, the aroma of homemade biscuits, a glass of sweet tea in hand or a cup of fresh squeezed lemonade and let’s add a warm slice of pound cake…. Just another Southern Summer loading in 2023.

WCH Recommends: These 2 Rocking chairs are an amazing way to rock the summer away and enjoy the breeze.

My Thoughts about Southern Pound Cake:

1. Pound cake can probably be found at family celebrations & holiday gatherings especially if they are potluck type gatherings.

2. You will always find at least one pound cake at church picnics or potlucks in the South… after all, it’s an essential Southern staple!

3. Pound cakes are a central part of any good dessert table.

4. Pound cakes are either a grand mystery of baking to some and to others.. well, they seem to navigate any pound cake recipe like a pro.

5. Pound Cakes can be baked different pans… Bundt, loaf pan, or a tube pan AND Most Southern cooks have a definite preference on which they use regularly to bake a pound cake.

WCH Recommends: Tube pans and cast iron loaf pans are great baking standard pans for baking all goodies this summer.

A Trip Back Into Time Regarding Pound Cake:

Pound cake is exactly what you think it is. It’s a fairly simplistic looking dessert. The origin is quite literally what it sounds like… the first pound cakes were made with one pound of flour, eggs, butter, and sugar! In today’s recipe equivalent… 3 1/3 cups of flour, 8-9 eggs, 4 sticks of butter and 2 cups of sugar. When you begin to think about that, most traditional pound cake ratios are slightly different today!

My favorite Pound cake recipe uses 6 large eggs

I didn’t realize until recently, that the first recipe for pound cake appeared in 1796 in the American Cookery Cookbook and Pound Cake Recipe was rooted in Northern European cuisine… Europeans measurements were by weight, hence, a pound of butter, flour, sugar. I couldn’t even begin to imagine how to stir and create a fluffy pound of butter with only using a wooden spoon😳!

Strange Things about Pound Cake:

Personally, the strangest reaction I ever witnessed about a freshly baked pound cake, I encountered a few years ago. I had made a pound cake to share with the staff at the hardware store and as we prepared to slice the cake, a former employee shouted out, “let me go find some honey or molasses to go with the cake to cut the dryness of the pound cake”. I was stunned. What on earth was this person’s perspective concerning pound cake??? I realized that they had potentially NEVER eaten a pound cake that wasn’t dry. To never have eaten an amazing piece of pound cake… moist on the inside yet with a crust on the outside.

Comfort Food 101:

Comfort Foods tend to be hearty, homey, and let’s just face it, good for your soul. The mental boost that your favorite comfort food creates, can restore your equilibrium.

As far as dessert goes, Cream Cheese Pound Cake is a family favorite comfort food. My Mom regularly makes this one for us when we visit, so frequently that my niece named Mom’s pound cake, “Nanny Cake”. The name has stuck. We all call Mom’s Cream Cheese Pound Cake, “Nanny Cake.” Now that’s truly Comfort Food 101!

My Personal Tips for Baking A Pound Cake:

1. Grease pan with Crisco /flour dusting mixture instead of using a baking spray. I have never had a great success with using a baking spray. For making a chocolate pound cake, dust with a mixture of flour and cocoa powder.

2. I always preheat my oven… before I begin to mix ingredients. One of my cake cookbooks recommends that you preheat 30 minutes before baking. This allows your oven to fully come up to temperature and allows for even baking of cake layers… I would bet that would extent to a pound cake as well! (Note: Some pound cake recipes are cold oven pound cakes and you are asked to not preheat oven)

3. Use the oven light and your nose! If it smells like it is almost done then it probably is … the oven light keeps you from peeking inside and provides a nice visual . Each time you open the oven door your temperature drops about 25 degrees and adds to the chances of your cake falling.

4. Use a cake tester after baking time elapses to check for complete baking doneness.

5. Pound cake recipes calling for a tube pan won’t always fit in a Bundt pan. (Tube pans have higher sides and will hold more, while Bundt pans are more shallow and fluted.)

6. When unsure of size of your cake pan, use a measuring cup to fill the cake pan with water to determine the pan’s capacity.

7. Read entire recipe and make sure you have all ingredients ready before beginning! Gather ingredients prior to mixing. It’s important not to overmix pound cake ingredients.

8. Bring cold ingredients to room temperature before baking… items like… eggs, butter, cream cheese, milk.

Happy Summer Baking Y’all!

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