Valentine Decor

 Happy Monday!  Today I am sharing some of our Valentine Decor since tomorrow is February 1st.  As much as I love the transition from Christmas to winter decor, it is fun to put out some new decorations throughout the house.  

Welcome!

I have had this glass jar for probably 10 years now.  It was purchased at a Pottery Barn outlet.  I always fill the bottom with seasonal decor and the top part is a candle.

Above my kitchen window, I display every year old Valentine cards I received as a child from family members.  You can tell by the look of it these are cards from the 70's.

This is a little touch in our primary bath.  The song "Always and Forever" has always been a special song for my husband and I.

Thanks for reading and hope your week is off to a good start this Monday morning!

Linking up with Sarah and Holly

Friday Favorites ~ January 28, 2022

Friday has come again.....don't they seem to happen quickly?   Happy Friday!

ONE

 

I started my week with Menchie's again.  It was a rough Monday, but frozen yogurt always helps!  And, I had lunch with my parents which was good.

TWO

I had to take my daughter's car to the car shop for a possible repair.  I waited at Starbucks and was thankful to hear that it was a quick fix and all is good.

THREE

We celebrated 5 years in our home yesterday.  My home is always one of my favorites!

FOUR

I was reunited with a friend yesterday afternoon after 10 years.  It was so lifegiving!

Have a great weekend!

 

Monthly Musings ~ January

It is January's Monthly Musing conversation about Love and Valentine's Day in anticipation of the holiday just around the corner.

Linking up with Holly and Patty today

1.  Favorite Valentine's Memory?

I just have sweet memories of celebrating with my kids at home.  For us, the day was just made up of the little things.

2. Chocolate, Flowers, Both?

I could go both!  

3.  Favorite Romantic Date?

I remember my first married Valentine's Day making a heart shaped cheesecake.  It's been a long time since I've done that, but I still have that pan, so maybe one year in the future.  A romantic date now is something that is thought out on his own, personal and just spending time together.

4. Any Valentine's Traditions with Kids?

Like I mentioned, this was a day made up of the little things.  I gave my girls small gifts and we would have some candy and bake a Valentine dessert.  We usually had heart shaped food throughout the day! Here's a throwback picture....probably 13 years ago or so.

5.  How Do You Show Love?

I show love by actions....helping people since I am an Enneagram 2!

6. Do You Decorate for Valentine's Day?

Why yes, I do!  I think I decorate for almost every holiday :).  My plan is to work on that this weekend & will post pictures next week.

7. Do You Wear Red or Pink on Valentine's Day?

I would probably lean more pink, but would wear either color.  As of now, I have no Valentine's Day outfit in mind.  I have been looking for some cute Valentine earrings in the stores, but will probably just get some from Amazon.

8. Valentine's Day - Big Deal or Small Remembrance?

It was (I use past tense in thinking of when my girls were younger)/is more of a small remembrance in the fact that we didn't go out on this day.  But, we did try to make it a big deal at home with a gift and a special meal I would cook at home.

9.  Favorite Ideas for School Valentine's Parties?

My girls were homeschooled (until my youngest started high school), but they were part of co-op groups.  They would have a small Valentine exchange with friends.  One year, my daughter who has a February birthday, had a Valentine themed party.  I relied on Oriental Trading for all my craft ideas!

10.  Have You Ever Had a Secret Admirer?

 

Nope

What's Up Wednesday ~ January 2022

 Happy Wednesday friends!  I am excited to link up again for this month's What's Up Wednesday, our first one of 2022!  Here is a glimpse of my month......

What we're eating this week............

This is a list of several recipes I have made over the last week.  Some of these have WW points for those who follow this plan.  

One Pot Healthy Chicken Parm Pasta 

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Corn Soup

Slow Cooker Hawaiin Pork

Roast, potatoes, roasted carrots and cheddar Carbquick biscuits

Salmon, broccoli, brown rice

What I'm reminiscing about...........

Two years ago this month, we took a trip to San Antonio & Houston.  It was honestly such a highlight of 2020.  I have always enjoyed every trip to Texas.  Most of that is because of the people and the food!

Brisket grilled cheese

What I'm loving............

Two friends and I are beginning to meet every other week for a time of prayer and to discuss the book, Gentle and Lowly.  I am also going to try to participate in another study of this book with another group.  Usually, I need get information in multiple ways in different lights to really have something stick with me.  

What we've been up to.............

It seems like 2022 has been a busy work year so far for me.  I have spent a lot of time on work, but at the same time, I am trying to get in some lunch dates with family & friends.  

We are also trying to get in the habit of going to the gym again.  By going to the gym, I mean our goal is 1 time a week :).  Ideally, we would go twice.  Any more that that is like we have run a marathon.  I am just walking, but it is getting me moving a little bit. 

I have also spent time this month going through things to donate.

What I'm dreading...........

It looks like I may need to do some modifications to our current health insurance.  With us both being self-employed, we don't have any employer plan. And tax season is coming.  I dread these household things.  Adulting.

What I'm working on.............

I am busy working on lots of things for work.  Sometimes, the technical part gets frustrating, but I do really enjoy my job.  And see above answer.

What I'm excited about............

Oh my goodness.  Tomorrow, I get to pick up a friend from the airport that I haven't seen in at least 10 years.  I will just have a few hours with her, but I am so looking forward to this time.

What I'm listening to.............

I am listening to all the podcast and that list just grew since I am now a Patreon member subscribed to the extra Big Boo Podcast episodes.  I am also listening to the Bestie Breakdown, The Open Door Sisterhood, Proverbs 31, Something to Celebrate, The Next Right Thing, Don't Mom Alone, The Naked Marriage, Jesus Over Everything, Story Tellers Live, Office Ladies and In the Face of Illness.  

This is why I don't read as much because I'm always listening!  I rarely listen to music anymore when I am in the car alone. 

What I'm wearing.............

It has been cold here, so I am wearing sweaters most days.

This is my newest sweater purchased off Amazon for under $20!

What I'm doing this weekend.............

 I get to meet my new great nephew!  He is a month old, but spent some time in the NICU and is doing well now.  We also have a triple date planned with two other couples.  These are both good friends of mine whome I recently found out are cousins!!  What a small world!

What I'm looking forward to next month............

Next month, we are going to visit our college girl to celebrate her 21st birthday!  Yesterday was her due date.  I told her that I was so ready to see her on that date 21 years ago and I still get excited when I am going to see her.

My husband and I may have a night away as well....that trip is still in the works. 

Not much else is new with us....jsut staying warm, busy, and trying to keep up with this day-to-day life we've been given.  Enjoy your day!

Hello Monday ~ January 24, 2022

Good Monday.  I am hoping this morning is full of new mercies and encouragement as we face a new day. 

Friday afternoon, I had an impromptu lunch date with my husband at a famous burger place in a suburb here.  The onion rings were so delicious!!

Friday night, we got a phone call at 6pm inviting us to go see Ellie Holcomb in concert, which began at 7pm.  Since we had no plans, 15 minutes after the phone call, we were on our way to the event.  Her show was at a local church and was such a worshipful event.  I recommend listening to her music and seeing her if she performs in an area near you.

Saturday, I started my day with an early run to Wal-Mart.  I made breakfast....scrambled eggs, bacon and waffles and a side of fruit.  I watched a Hallmark movie and in the afternoon, I took my daughter's car for an oil change.  We took a family trip to the gym to get in a walk on a cold day.  Afterwards, I cooked dinner and did a few loads of laundry.  We watched The Jungle Cruise movie Saturday night.  It was full of adventure for sure.  It did have more snakes it seems than the old Indiana Jones movie, so just a warning.  I did have to turn my head a few times because it was a little too much for me.

Sunday was church and then we went to lunch at McAlisters.  I love when the 3 of us (or 4 when my college girl is around) go out to eat.  Our conversations are always very different when we are out vs. eating at home.  I was able to facetime and play a game with my oldest greats Sunday afternoon.  They were so funny & I loved the virtual time with them.  I'm wearing my Buc-ees sweatshirt :). 

Sunday night was spent doing a little cleaning at home and getting ready for the week ahead. 

I'll be back here on Wednesday!

Linking up with Holly & Sarah

 

Friday Favorites ~ January 21, 2022

Good morning!  Just checking in to say hi and I hope you have all had a good week.  Another week has gone by, and I'll be honest, it was a hard one for me with a few situations.  However, in God's goodness, there is always something to be thankful for at the end of the day and those are my favorites.

ONE

Monday was a holiday and I treated myself to one of my favorite treats, frozen yogurt.

TWO

Friendships are a favorite this week.

I had lunch with a dear friend whom I haven't spent much time with in the past 6 months.  That time got away quickly, so it was good to do this and we ate at a restaurant new to me.

My best friend from North Carolina has been in town over 2 weeks now with her daughter who has recently been diagnosed with cancer.  I was able to have some car time with her as I took her back to the airport and we have talked every day.  She will be back in a few weeks for the begining of chemo for her daughter.  I know they would appreciate the prayers.

Another dear friend of mine and our famiy told me she is coming in town next week.  I haven't seen this friend in over 10 years.  The ironic thing is we actually were planning to go see her next month.  She is coming last minute due to a funeral she has to attend.  Even though it us under a hard circumstance, I am so looking forward to seeing her.

THREE

Giving back to others is a favorite of mine.  Through my job, I was able to help serve over 100 families dinner one night this week.  I love being able to go to the hospital to drop off goodies and meals for families with sick kids in the hospital. I am so thankful for my job.

FOUR

I am thankful God's promises are always true, regardless of what kind of day or week we have.  I am thankful for the health of my family and for a warm, dry place to live, especially during such a cold week.  I am thankful for food on our table.  I actually have cooked more the past 2 weeks at home and it has been nice.  Now to meal plan for next week!

Enjoy your weekend and always look for something to be thankful for in each day.  I promise you won't have to look too far.

 

Weekend Wrap-Up: Easy/Delicious Homemade Bread Recipe! ~ January 17, 2022

 

Hello Monday.  Hope you are all enjoying this long weekend.  Today, I am sharing a little about our weekend.  

Friday night, I made spaghetti and our favorite family homemade bread recipe.  This is a super easy recipe, but it isn't a last minute prep.  It only takes a few minutes to prep the dough, but it will take several hours for the bread to rise.  Here it is if you are looking for a delicious, homemade bread!

8 oz room temperature water

1 ½ tsp rosemary

1-2 cloves garlic

3 Tbsp olive oil

3 cups bread flour

1 tsp salt

1 ¾ tsp yeast (I used a packet of the rapid rise yeast)

Measure all ingredients in mixing bowl (I use my KitchenAid).  Knead until it forms into a dough ball.  Pat dough into a 9 X 13 dish (or round cake pans) and cover for rising.  Let rise until dough doubles in bulk.  Lightly punch down with the end of a spoon (to make small indentations).  Brush dough with olive oil and sea salt and bake at 400 until top just turns brown (about 20 min).  

Best served with this Olive Oil Bread Dip:

1/2 c. olive oil

2 tsp sea salt

1 tsp pepper

2 Tbps grated parmesan

2 tsp rosemary

After dinner, we watched Being the Ricardos on Amazon.  The true story is hard and was a little sad.

Saturday, with the exception of an early morning run to the grocery store, I stayed in all day doing a few things around the house and also watched a Hallmark movie.  Saturday night, we watched the movie Fences.  We didn't know much about it, but it too was a sad movie and hard to watch.

Sunday morning, we woke up to a few inches of snow.  However, it was nice it didn't shut down the town and we were still able to get out on the roads.  We went to church and the drive was so pretty.  The trees were beautiful.  It was also so good to be reminded of God's promises through His word, His people and His creation.

I had made a chicken and corn soup for lunch in the slow cooker.  It was great to come home to and is full of chicken and vegetables.  Later in the afternoon, my husband and I took a walk around our lake and through the woods in our neighborhood.

Instead of watching another sad movie at night about marriages, I watched a few episodes of Seinfeld for some laughs!  

Thankful for some downtime this weekend and hope you are all staying warm!

Linking up with Holly and Sarah

Let's Look ~ January 2022

 Happy mid-week to you all!  Linking up today for the monthly Let's Look.

The theme of this month is how you organize.  

I don't do anything particularly ground breaking or different in January than I do the rest of the year.  Like most, it does seem like a good time of the year to purge! While putting away fall and Christmas decor this year, I actually set out several items that I didn't use to give away.  Basically, if I haven't used the item the past 2 holiday seasons, chances are, I won't be using it in the future. 

I am also realizing that with my stuff, my girls will more than likely not want to use any of this when they get older.  

The key for me to stay organized is to have use lots of hooks, organizing containers and a place/routine for things.  I find that paperwork, like bills and receipts, stacks up easily so I set aside some time weekly to sort through these.

I stay organized by writing most things down on my phone.....my to-do list and reminders. 

I am looking forward to seeing what others do for organization.  At the end of the day, we all need to do what works for us and a system that we will stick with past January :).

Weekend....uh, I mean 2021 Year in Review

 Happy Monday!  Before the year starts to fly right past us too quickly, I am sharing a little look back to 2021.  I am going to say, overall, 2021 was a hard year, one I was not sad to say goodbye to.  However, I also want to remember the good from the year, so that is what I am highlighting here.  These pictures help forget the hard moments of day to day.

January

My husband and I took a weekend trip to the Delta area of Mississippi for a food tour and we visited the Grammy Musuem in Cleveland, MS.  There is one other location, which is located in Los Angeles.

February

We celebrated my oldest daughter's 20th birthday.

We had record snow and we did not leave our house by car for 6 days.  We did take a walk to our neighborhood hill for sledding, but that was it. I loved watching it snow!

March

My youngest and I flew to Richmond, Virginia for Spring Break to visit my brother and his family.

We drove to Williamsburg for the day as well.

 

April

We visited a Buc-ees, the closest one to us, about 3 hours away.  It was quite exciting :)

The main reason for that trip was to see Nate Bargatze, who was hilarious.

I took a few days and drove to Indiana to see a sweet friend and her husband and new baby.

May

We went to a Redbirds game, our AAA baseball team.

My husband and I celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary.

June

Zoo date with my greats.

We took a family vacation to Florida.

I flew to Philadelphia for a few days to visit with a friend I met in South America who was in the states.  I was able to run the Rocky steps, a bucket list item for me.

 

July

My husband and I took a weekend trip to an area in Tennessee we had never visited.

August

I started work at a new part time job, which I love. We hosted our annual 5K race.

My youngest started her senior year of high school after a full year of virtual.  She never went in person any of her junior year.  

I took a long weekend trip and went to North Carolina to visit a friend and my in-laws too.

 

September

We were able to visit with some of our dearest friends who just moved back to the states from Bangkok as missionaries. This was a life giving day.   

We went white water rafting as a family Labor Day weekend.

October

After almost 2 years of waiting, my girls and I saw Harry Styles in concert in Nashville.

Brook celebrated a birthday!

I went on a girls weekend trip to Columbia, TN to see a live podcast of Big Boo with Melanie Shankle and Sophia Hudson.

Brook and I spent 5 days on a college tour in Georgia, ending in beautiful Savannah.

November

 I celebrated a birthday!

My husband and I spent a weekend camping....in a van, down by the river.

Thanksgiving

December

We saw John Crist live comedy show.

We got dressed up for a Christmas party.

Christmas with my siblings

Top highlights in review....

Snow days

Trip to Philadelphia/running Rocky steps

Laughter/trip to see Nate Bargatze

Visit with friends

Harry Styles concert 

White water rafting with family

Now, continuing on with 2022! 

linking up Holly