It’s the first Saturday in October, and you better believe that I am feeling FESTIVE today!
I hope wherever you are this morning, you’re feeling festive too.
Thank you for stopping by on a weekend! xx
I was alternating between exercises, and when I turned around to grab my dumbbells…
…Charlie was sleeping on them 🙂 .
I love any opportunity to hang out with my sweet friend Gaily. She started out as Smith’s violin teacher and quickly became one of my favorite people. We love to celebrate our birthdays together (we’re both October babies), so we met on Thursday for a little birthday happy hour. Look at what she brought me…
…how cute is this cake carrier?! Inside she had made me her delicious rum cake (it’s always one of my faves!) still warm from the oven. Adorable. I couldn’t love it more.
One good baseball game followed by two terrible games. Sigh.
We started the New Testament this week in The Bible Recap which made me oh so happy! I sat down with all of my favorite October things and dove in. Don’t forget, I have a post about HOW TO GET STARTED IN THE BIBLE should this all be new to you and you don’t know where to begin. I would LOVE to help you dig into God’s Word.
Start AT THIS POST and then please email me with ANY questions. mixandmatchmama@yahoo.com
On Wednesday, my mom and I went to a pop up shop some friends of mine had and look what I found there…
…obviously, I had to buy this. Duh.
I live on the same street as these sisters and both of my teens either cheer or play football with one of their kiddos. I’m always trying to sneak into their family things and be a bonus sister. I love them (and their mama!) so much! It was fun seeing them at the pop up shop too!
Early Prime Deals for the win…
…I rounded up SO MANY great deals RIGHT HERE!
These are all HOUSEHOLD ITEMS on sale now!
Plus…
…so many items I ALREADY OWN AND LOVE and are on sale right now too! You can catch all of these items HERE!
You guys, Punta Cana is always a crazy fun idea! How cool is this pic?!
This sweet family loved their time in Punta Cana and you know…
…our big “framily” did too! This was one of our favorite vacations!
We would love to send you to Punta Cana too! We’d also love to send you on a cruise, to Walt Disney World, Universal, Hawaii or anywhere else in the world. We create custom vacations without any fees. Connect with us today!
Last weekend, Mades wanted to make something pumpkin-y, so I looked at which ingredients I had on hand and decided to pull out an oldie but goodie recipe…
…my PUMPKIN HAND PIES! They could NOT be easier.
They’re not even a recipe, they’re just a fun little “idea” that tastes great and is very fall 🙂 .
We unrolled both pieces of pie crust and also made yummy little pumpkin “rolls” too…
Unroll and cut your dough into 8 triangles.
Add a little bit of your filling to each piece…
…and roll up.
Cleary Mades took this pic…
…and this one…
…and this one…
…bahahahaha! And this one!
Baked and oh so yummy!
Whether you build yours into pumpkins or rolls, these are an easy little fall treat. The recipe is HERE.
Gaily and I met at one of our favorite downtown McKinney restaurants, Union Bear, where I had…
…one of their seasonal drinks! I asked them which one was the favorite and they unanimously picked the Cafe de Calabaza. It was delish. If you’re local, I LOVE Union Bear. It’s always a great spot.
GIVEAWAY TIME!!
Who won last week’s $50 COLLEEN ROTHSCHILD GIFT CARD?!
Congratulations Laura Cromley! Laura, I am so grateful for YOU! You are always such a dedicated blog reader here, and I am so very grateful. I emailed you this morning. Please email me back to claim your prize.
Okay, this week, I decided to do something different for our giveaway.
This week, I am giving away…
…a $100 Amazon Gift Card, BUT instead of waiting until next weekend to announce the winner, I will announce it on TUESDAY so that you can shop PRIME BIG DEAL DAYS!
This means, you only have a few days to enter to win. The winner will be announced Tuesday morning here on my blog.
You know the drill, giveaway deets below.
Wishing you a WONDERFUL October weekend! I hope it is filled with pumpkin Halloween cozy wonderful awesomeness.
See you Monday! xx
You must enter the giveaway via the link at the bottom of this post in order to be eligible to win (the Rafflepress will randomly select the name). There is only ONE requirement on the Rafflepress and that’s “BE A POSITIVE PART OF THE MIX AND MATCH MAMA COMMUNITY THIS FALL”.
That’s it. Maybe that means you’re thoughtfully commenting on most posts or maybe that means you’re sharing an IG quote of mine, trying out a recipe, reading a new book and being a part of the discussion…whatever it means to you, I just think we are all in this together, so I’m not going to ask you to jump through any hoops for the giveaway. Simply click the link to the Rafflepress add your entry for your name to be entered if you’re planning on being a thoughtful part of this community this fall. That’s it!
Easy as that! I will stop the giveaway and have the Rafflepress randomly select a name at 2:00 PM CST on October 6th. I will announce the winner’s names here on my blog on TUESDAY, October 7th just in time for PRIME BIG DEAL DAYS!
Diane Moore says
I love all the “Mades” pictures- of her and by her! You are a good sport and so blessedly regular to include them 😘
I really enjoy these bonus Saturday posts 🍁
Jess S says
Eating a pumpkin Trader Joe’s Kringle, drinking a PSL, and reading this is making me feel like I’m fully embracing fall. 😂🥰
Bren says
Oh how I love a Saturday morning blog post! Enjoying my morning tea in a festive fall mug and catching up on your blog is a great way to start my Saturday. And of course, one of my favorite fall movies on in the background. Happy weekend, Shay!
Robin says
We need a ‘baking with Mades’ series! Love her popping up on your blog! Have the best Saturday!
Meredith says
Your pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are on my list to make this weekend! Yum!
Carrie Martens says
Love these Saturday posts 😊🎃 Especially the fall ones! I’m so sorry about your team. Not a fan of the Yankees. We did advance and I’m excited/nervous/thrilled/anxious/hopeful that we can make it past this hurdle. Have a great weekend!
Janice Harris says
Thank you for the early Amazon recs!
Elspeth Mizner says
So many fun finds! I love the pumpkin hand pies! Yum!!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Coco Evans says
I love your ‘tis the Season Saturdays! They make me so happy. I’ll have to try that pumpkin treat.
Joan says
Thanks for the pumpkin baking ideas. My daughter is always looking for something to bake and these will be perfect!
Also, give an update how cross country is going – fellow cross country mom here. Isn’t it the most supportive and encouraging sport out there? Love it!
Mix and Match Mama says
She is loving it! We have fallen in love with this community.
Sarah Mitchell says
That cake carrier is SO adorable!!! I need it in my life lol!
Marci G. says
The Nantucket bag is super cute!
I make your peanut butter pie every Thanksgiving and is a huge family favorite! I’m going to try your pumpkin hand pies with apple filling.
Mix and Match Mama says
YAY! Thank YOU for making my recipes for your family! xx
Kathy says
I was in McKinney yesterday. We ate lunch at Sweet Paris and then downtown to Spoons for pie! Love your McKinney!
Mix and Match Mama says
I hope you had the best day! xx
Amie says
Happy October! My Amazon cart is bursting!
Alyssa J says
Those hand pies look delicious!! And that cake carrier is so festive!! Everything fall related just makes me smile!
Jeanne Cobianchi says
I love the Saturday posts! The Mades pics and Charlie on the dumbbell…priceless!!!
Heather says
That pic from Punta Cana is fantastic! What a terrific memory for that family!!
Kristin says
I am feeling TIRED but also very relieved today. We took our daughter to the ER last night when her vision got blurry, and one of her pupils dilated. Labs and CT came back fine, and eye went back to normal, so we got home around 1 am. Working theory is that some of the dilating drops she got at the eye dr yesterday were in her eyelashes and got into her eye when when she showered? Anyway, calling the eye dr on Monday to ask their opinion. All that to say, I am happy to have such cheerful and fun content to read this morning when I am not at 100%. Enjoy your October weekend!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh goodness, that is not how you want to start your weekend. I am so sorry! I hope she has a very very speedy recovery. xx
Kristin says
Thank you, Shay. We’re feeling pretty good having stroke and brain bleed ruled out. Sometimes a little medical knowledge is dangerous, and I think I might enjoy NOT knowing what to worry about.
Patti says
I’m considered a newbie to your blog. I would never have found so many cute tops if I had not discovered your blog. I have already ordered several items from Amazon because of your lovely suggestions. So many other sites on your recommendations have sold out! Thank you for sharing all your findings!
Lisa Brown says
I look forward to your posts every single day. You are so intentional in celebrating every day and I love it. Just like my mom was. I want to live just like that and I so appreciate your example and inspiration – it means more than you know. Thank you Shay!!
Tanya Madden says
Such a fun October it’s becoming! 🧡🎃
Laura Holmes says
The Sox… I cannot even with the games this week. Ugh. Loving the mini hand pies! Need to try those!
Jean says
Happy Saturday! I saw your bosu ball in the background of Charlie’s picture. Do you currently use it as part of your workout? If so, would you mind sharing the exercises you do with it?
Mix and Match Mama says
I do! I can pretty much find a way to incorporate it every day. For instance, yesterday, I was doing dead lifts and arm raises, so instead of doing both flat on the ground, I used my bosu ball to add a stability element.
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
Okay so I definitely need to add one of these to my routine!!
https://meettheshaneyfelts.com/2025/10/friday-favorites-93.html
Natalie says
Thank you for the sports bra recommendation! It is literally the best one I’ve ever worn. Since they’re on sale, I might just pick up another two! Have a great weekend!
Terry says
Wondering if your friend would be willing to share her rum cake recipe and where she got her cute pumpkin cake holder?
Ashley Miller says
Loving alllll the fall stuff right now…and another October baby over here 🎃
Steph says
Happy Saturday in October Shay! Who doesn’t love a weekend in a “ber” month right? Love your blog and have for over 12 years! Crazy 😜
Amber H says
I love these Saturday posts! I also love that it actually FEELS like Fall here in Georgia today. It’s cloudy and a little cooler than it has been. Perfect weather for a candle and a fall playlist while I do my usual Saturday chores. Also, that drinks list looked delish! I will have to recreate a couple of them at home!
Lauren Palmer says
We are always happy to have you as a Long sister!! ❤️❤️❤️
Beverly says
I wish I had made the time to exercise when I was much younger. I ran some during the Jim Fixx running craze in the early seventies and then didn’t do any exercise until a year ago after a bad health scare with three days in the hospital. Now at 72 I box 4 nights a week and Saturday am. I was walking a half hour everyday with the weighted vest you recommended but now that I am back teaching full time it’s hard to fit it in. I get up at 5:30 am to be at work at 7am and then box from 6-7 at night. Wish I could be more like you can fit it in. I love walking but I just can’t find the time with my teaching schedule. I did lose 47 lbs and my labs are excellent but I’m fighting bad family genetics. How do you do it al??????
Mix and Match Mama says
Beverly, I do not do it all, so please don’t think I do. I do the best I can and give myself grace. You have lost 47 pounds?! That is HUGE and should be celebrated! I feel like I “know” you well enough to know you’re doing the very best you can (the weight loss is proof!). One tip I might share though is to track your steps during your busy teaching season. You might be walking more than you think? If not, you could probably add a few extra steps throughout the day to bump up your “walking” without having to set aside time to walk. I think you’re crushing it, Beverly! xx
Cindi says
Great response, Shay! And bravo, Beverly! Your testimony gives me motivation as I start my own weight loss journey! As my 2 year old granddaughter says- Go, girl! ❤️
Gail says
I think we all might need that recipe for the rum cake! Also, thanks for the recommendation for the Running Girl bra….I now have 2 of them and I love that the straps are regular and dont get too close to my neck.
Mix and Match Mama says
RIGHT?! I’m legit wearing one right now. They are so so good!
Maria says
I’ve made the Pioneer Woman’s Christmas rum cake with Malibu coconut rum – to die for!
https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9594/christmas-rum-cake/
Suzanne Douglass says
My dog loves to come in the garage and nap while I work out too!
Also, my family went on a scalloping trip in south florida a few years ago. It was so fun!
Jodi says
My husband and I were celebrating our 26th wedding anniversary/(35 years together total) at Union Bear. When we walked in, we saw you two sweet ladies at the bar and I noticed all the fun bday bags (and that fab cake carrier!) It’s always nice to see you “in the wild”. Aside from following you since the beginning, your agency has planned three fab vacays for my fam! I am all about all things Shay Shull!😉😜🍁 Union Bear is GREAT, isn’t it? 33 Restaurant Group, in general, really. Headed to their Heritage Pizza on Monday!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh goodness, I wish I could have met you and said hi!! If you see me out and about again, please, please say hello. I am SO grateful for women like YOU!! xx
Jill Snethen says
Your Saturday blog posts are my favorite. Thanks for always sharing your favorites!
MICHELLE OKERLUND says
I love your Saturday posts! Have a great weekend!
Taylor R says
I am having such trouble entering the giveaway! Is there anyway to confirm I entered? Every time the page tries to load fully it automatically goes to a new MMM blog post page. These Saturday posts and giveaways are such a treat! Thanks, Shay!
Mix and Match Mama says
Have you gotten the page to open and typed in your email? If not, I can do that for you!
Taylor Ronnei says
I was able to enter my email but not able to click the next button “Enter the Giveaway”!
Mix and Match Mama says
Did you use this email? I will check for you!
Taylor Ronnei says
I did! Thank you for checking!!
Mindy says
I’m having this same issue but did enter my email and clicked the part about being part of the community. I hope that worked!
Mix and Match Mama says
You’re good if you did that!!
Sonya Z says
I think I’ll try my hand at some pumpkin hand pies this weekend, that sounds delicious and very “fall”. 😊
Susan Fitzpatrick says
Those pumpkin rolls look amazing!! That is the cutest cake carrier. That was a sweet gift with rum cake too!
Cherie says
The sports bras are my favorite! Now the happy owner of three of them. Thanks for all the great advise and fall happiness. There is something pumpkin baking in my oven right now. Plus I’m wearing my new Kendra pumpkin necklace- I’m obsessed. October is my favorite month.
Julie says
I have so many pictures on my phone that look like that! 🫣😂
Love the Prime Day ideas too!
Betty Ripley says
Mades is such a character! I love her selfies! Seems like she is a fun kid!
Tracy says
I have a walking pad and love it! I’ve been thinking about getting a Dyson so thank you for the head’s up on the early Prime Day sale!
Julie Bohlman says
Love this post- it totally cheered me up this mornjng! I have a little cold and it’s milling me to not feel 100% on a precious fall Friday/Saturday! It’s a new day, and with rest and tea I’m feeling better so I hope to try making the pumpkin treats with my boy gang today to go along side our fave- pumpkin soup.
Debra Lowe says
I want that cake carrier! Any idea where your friend found it? Also love the pictures Madely did – she is one of the most joyous children – from pics of her it seems she lights up a room! Thank you for the Saturday posts – a little bit of fun for the start of the weekend.
Nikki Sommer says
The roll-ups look delicious. What gluten-free dough do you use? My daughter is gluten-free.
Mix and Match Mama says
Trader Joe’s!
Hayley C says
Does Smith still play the violin or take lessons? I know he isnt in orchestra anymore but I’m curious if he’s kept up the talent as a hobby!
Mix and Match Mama says
Right now, he’s just practicing on his own and not formally.
Arika says
What a thoughtful gift! Your friend obviously knows you well!
ANNE MIILLER says
Hi Shay, it is funny that you had your Amazon recommendations. I was stopping by to see which walking pad you got and boom, there it was. Getting ready for bad weather days and plan to use it whyit is too hot next summer.
Anne
Nicol Nabeta says
Shay, It’s always a treat to read your posts! You bring so much enthusiasm, joy, and fun to everything that it’s contagious! Thank you!
Lori says
I love the pumpkin cake carrier! So festive! This is absolutely my favorite time of year.