I offer honest book reviews, DIY articles, and down-home cooking recipes on my website, GinaRaeMitchell.com. I send one email per week called the Friday Finds, where I curate a list of the best books, recipes, crafts, and more, just for you. I wear many hats: wife, mom, nana, weaver, knitter, and reader are just a few. Join me for an entertaining & helpful weekly guide to make life more enjoyable.
Friday Finds | Memorial Day Reflections, Cozy Reads & Outdoor Gatherings
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Gina's Friday Finds | May 22, 2026 Hi Reader, As Memorial Day weekend approaches, I’ve been thinking a lot about the moments that quietly bring people together — outdoor dinners that stretch long after sunset, favorite family recipes, stories shared around the table, and the simple comfort of spending time with people we love. This week’s Friday Finds leans into that softer side of the long weekend with thoughtful books, meaningful reflections, cozy outdoor inspiration, and a few simple ideas for creating a warm gathering space of your own. This week’s featured reads include: 📚 Along the Trail by Kaci Curtis — a moving story of hardship, hope, and the quiet moments that shape who we become. 📚 Lies to Forever by Marlene M. Bell — a fast-paced thriller full of betrayal, secrets, and deadly suspense. 📚 Nokomis Hospital by Jay B. Greene — a gritty investigative mystery with strong moral stakes and compelling characters. 📚 The Secret Cottage by Kate Ellington — a charming historical romance filled with hidden longing and slow-burning connection. I’m also featuring Larry A. Freeland as this week’s Indie Author of the Week. His novel Legacy of Honor: The Descendants explores family legacy, sacrifice, and the stories families carry forward across generations — a theme that felt especially meaningful this time of year. Alongside the books, I’ve included a cozy outdoor gathering tip, reader extras for slow summer evenings, and this week’s Reader Question: 🌿 What’s one simple thing that instantly makes an outdoor gathering feel special to you? You can read the full Friday Finds here: https://ginaraemitchell.com/friday-finds-may-22-2026/ However you spend the weekend — with family, friends, good books, backyard meals, or a little extra quiet time outdoors — I hope it brings a few meaningful moments your way. Warmly, |
Hi, I’m Gina!
I offer honest book reviews, DIY articles, and down-home cooking recipes on my website, GinaRaeMitchell.com. I send one email per week called the Friday Finds, where I curate a list of the best books, recipes, crafts, and more, just for you. I wear many hats: wife, mom, nana, weaver, knitter, and reader are just a few. Join me for an entertaining & helpful weekly guide to make life more enjoyable.
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Hi Reader, I have a couple of things I can't wait to tell you about this week. First up is The Forever Post. There is something so special about getting mail that isn't bills or junk. The Forever Post delivers beautifully crafted serialized fiction letters right to your mailbox every two weeks, and I am completely charmed by the experience. I'm currently reading Desire & Lies, and there is something wonderfully immersive about stories told in epistolary form. Adding the anticipation of...