{ Happy Homemaker Monday - 01/19/2026 }

 

 

Good morning everyone, welcome back to my little corner of the world.

 

It is a cold morning, and when I say cold I mean chill down to the bone kind of morning.  It has just gone 4:45am and I've fed Elliott, cleaned his litter box and let the chickens out.  I am now sitting down with a much needed hot cup of coffee, some Book videos on YouTube and this post.  I don't think I've ever put up a Happy Homemaker Monday, this early in the day.  Wow!

 

We are having a quiet home day today, we had a good weekend, our usual errands, gym and church, so it feels good to not have any plans for today.  I hope you have a good holiday with your family.

 

Now, let's get on with today's post shall we?  Have a blessed week friends ♥ 

Sandra

♥♥♥♥

 

 

 *** The Weather *** 

It's been very cold the past few days.  The week ahead doesn't look as cold but Saturday is looking very cold and we even have snow in the forecast.   

 

Monday - Partly cloudy, 44 

Tuesday - Sunny, 55 

Wednesday - Partly Cloudy, 60

Thursday - Cloudy, 58

Friday - Showers, 42

Saturday - Snow, 17 

Sunday - Partly cloudy, 31

 

 

*** Right now I am *** 

In the living room enjoying my coffee.  I am also watching some book videos on YouTube.  I love watching these to see what others are reading and to get some good recommendations for myself as well.   

 

 

*** Thinking and pondering *** 

Nothing at the moment.  I am just thankful for my life and where we are in this point in time.  Curt and I have struggled a lot over the years, things haven't always been easy especially financially but we feel like we are finally seeing the fruit and the rewards, for staying focused, keeping God at the center and allowing Him to work through it all.  Just feeling very blessed!  

 

 

*** How I am feeling ***

I'm a bit tired.  So every winter we have issues with skunks trying to find a warm place under our home.  We have closed up every single area we have found that they got into, but they still come around.  And when they aren't trying to get under, they are around the house and stinking everything up.  It's so bad at times that the skunk smell penetrates our home and stays for a day or two.  

 

It woke up me up out of my sleep last night and it was hard to get back to sleep after.  So, I'm feeling a bit tired this morning, but it's going to be an easy home day, so I may just sneak a nap later. 

 

 

*** On the breakfast plate *** 

I'm just having my morning coffee, I will have breakfast later, though I have no idea what I'm going to have because nothing sounds good at the moment.   

 

 

*** On the lunch plate *** 

Will probably just do a cut up apple with some plain greek yogurt drizzled with honey, a teaspoon of peanut butter and some granola.  I love dipping my apple in this mixture and it's become one of my favorite go to lunches or snack.  

 

 

*** On the dinner plate *** 

Slow Cooker Parmesan Chicken with egg noodles, garlic bread and a salad.  Jasmine and her boyfriend Issac will be over for dinner today and this is one of their favorites.  

 

 

  

 

*** On the menu *** 

 

Monday - Slow Cooker Parmesan Chicken with egg noodles, garlic bread and a salad

Tuesday -  Islak Burgers, Oven Roasted Brussells Sprouts

Wednesday - Beef tips with gravy, mashed potatoes, zucchini in tomato sauce

Thursday - Shrimp Curry, Rice, Mini Naan 

Friday - Homemade Pizza

Saturday - BBQ Ribs, Baked Potatoes, Veggies (still haven't made these so they're staying)

Sunday -  Spaghetti, Garlic knots, Salad

 

*** What I am wearing *** 

Black soft pajama top and pant set, and a cardigan over it.  I will throw on some sweat pants and long sleeved top later.

 

 

*** On my reading pile *** 

I am currently doing my daily devotionals and reading the Bible as I wish, whatever book or particular verse I feel like reading, is what I am doing this year.  

 

I have also started the first book in the Megan Soja Christian Fiction Harbor of Spies and I'm quite enjoying it.

 

 

*** On my TV this week *** 

I've been catching up on all the vlogmas videos from my favorite channels, also just watching my live Portuguese TV, YouTube videos and whatever else I feel like.   

 

 

*** Looking around the house *** 

It is quiet except for the sound of my video and the central heating in the background.  

 

Elliott is sleeping under my recliner.  It's something he has loved doing since he was a kitten, I drape a blanket over the footrest and it creates a little nest in there for him,  I have a candle burning mostly because of the horrible skunk smell, but also because it creates such a beautiful atmosphere. 

 

 

*** To do list for today*** 

Daily homemaking chores

Water inside plants 

Daily bible reading and devotional/bible study

 

 

*** What I am creating *** 

Hopefully picking up my crochet blanket again this week.  Also got myself a knitted hat pattern and circular needles and I'm hoping to whip one up.  Wish me luck because I am not a huge knitter, knitting intimidates me for some reason but it's something I want to learn to do this year. 

 

 

*** From the camera *** 

Reading, it's one of my favorite things to do and I think if you were to walk into my home at random times, you would likely find me exactly like this.  

 

 

 

*** Devotional, Prayers, Bible Verses *** 

Our Pastor started a new series yesterday called The World is not Enough, and I can already tell that I'm going to love it.  He talks about the fact that a world without God is never going to work, and I think we can all as Christians understand that.  I was hoping the video would be up already so I could share it, but it's not.  I will come back and update this category once it's available to share.  

{ Getting back into routine }

January comes in with a loud bang and then silently falls into the background.  It seems to want to hide away, luring you into a false sense of security where you feel like it's still holiday season, but yet sense in your soul that things have changed.

 

Suddenly the overwhelming thoughts that so much had happened the past 12 months of your life, are flooding with overwhelming thoughts of a whole new 12 months still before you.  The possibilities are endless, but so are the unknowns and sometimes it's hard to navigate these first few weeks without feeling like a fish out of water.

 

I find, for myself, that the best way to approach this is to step back into a normal pre- holiday routine.  The decorations come down, everyone steps back into school and work, and as a homemaker you also step back into the role of provider and carer, because you see, you have to not only get yourself back into the groove but your family as well.

 

Early mornings are back and with that means, no makeup, stumble around in the kitchen making coffee for hubby to take to work.  As much as I struggle in the mornings, I do love this routine, it brings me a sense of peace and normalcy after a month of no schedules. 

 

I gave the room a good clean, top to bottom, dusted, changed curtains, rearranged the bookshelf and just put my touches here and there.

 

I think next to the kitchen, my bedroom is my favorite place to be and I need it to be calm and not chaotic. 

I removed the last few items of Christmas that were still laying around, some on the bookshelves that I totally forgot were that, so while in the middle of changing my slipcover on that little sofa chair, I spotted one and immediately grabbed it because I knew I would completely forget within the next 2 minutes.

 

Thank you perimenopause brain.  My word, I can't remember anything. 

There is something so wonderful about the house being set back to it's normal, usual self, after the holidays.  Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas and all the decorations, the trees, the garlands and big paper snowflakes.  I love family around and a crowded house with things just thrown here and there, reminders that a big family is living and enjoying the season.

 

But.....yes, butttttt, I would be lying if I didn't say that about a week before Christmas I start feeling overwhelmed and then just want it all over with so I can get back to normal.  I know, strange creatures that we are. 

Two days before my family arrived, my kitchen faucet decided to start leaking, and by the time they were here for a week, it was leaking to the point where it just wouldn't stop.  We didn't want to get into any major repairs but it was necessary when you have 10 people using the faucet multiple times a day.  So, off to Lowes we went, me, my husband and my brother.

 

I picked the faucet I wanted, we came home and then it took 3 plus hours to get it on because the old faucet and sink area hadn't been touched or updated in years (long before we even moved into this house), and everything had rusted, screws had stripped and it was a royal pain in the behind.  It took screwdrivers, drills and eventually a chainsaw to be able to remove all the piping and the old faucet.  

 

But it eventually came out and the new one went in.

 

By the next morning, the drain was leaking water undernearth, so back to Lowes we went.  This time my brother and husband said to me "maybe it's time for a new sink, instead of trying to throw sealant on this old one and fix something that will eventually need changing anyway."

 

I conceded and decided to go with a single deep sink, one I had always wanted. 

I will tell you that this was the best decision we could have made and I am in love with my new faucet and sink.  I never realized just how tight and shallow the previous double sink was.  I always got frustrated trying to fit everything in there and with just a few dishes it always seemed overflowing, but not anymore.  

 

This Kohler sink is beautiful and it came with a cutting board and a drying rack, which for me is like a spaceship kind of feeling.  I am not one to have the newest and bells and whistles, I always use things until the literally fall apart, so this is major.

 

Speaking of which, I had my old Samsung phone for almost 10 years, and it was in terrible shape, overheating, hanging and so on.  My brother convinced me to get the new Iphone, and after weeks of talk, I decided to do it.  Curt got it for me for Christmas, the Iphone 17 Pro Max and oh my goodness.

 

Again, I feel like a fish out of place with a super duper amazing phone.  I don't even know how to use it completely, it has so many new functions for me.  But I will get there with time.   

I really do love the dish drying rack, and have even been using it to dry my mop pads and smaller dish towels.  It's wonderful!

 

Getting back into routine also means cooking homemade meals every dinner, which I really, and I mean REALLLYYYYYY missed.  There is nothing like food prepared at home, it's so much tastier and healthier than all the take out junk we were having.

 

I made delicious roast chicken legs and thighs, paired it with a garlic spaghetti for the boys, and I had broccoli and cauliflower mix.  It was so good.  I shared it on my Instagram stories last night. 

 

 

One thing I also missed and am so happy to get back into, is my reading.  I try to do it either early morning, or before bed, and if I don't get a chance, then I try to fit it in usually when I'm waiting for dinner to cook.

 

That's what I did today, just sat on the couch with my book and enjoyed 30 minutes of reading. 

 

It is hard sometimes to find a moment to read, at least for me it is, I tend to push it to the bottom of the list and give everything else priority, which is not ok.  As I mentioned in my previous post about intentional and purposeful living, reading is something I want to intentionally do more of in 2026.  Instead of reaching for my phone and social media when I have spare moments, I will reach by my Bible or my current book. 

Life is slowly falling back into place, routines are being reestablished, and I for one am very happy and very content.

 

Tomorrow morning it's back to the gym which I am so looking forward to, and then I think Curt and I are going shopping downtown, we both need new clothes and we also love looking around thrift stores, so we may do a lunch date.  

 

I hope you're all having a fantastic Friday, enjoy your long weekend (funny story, I forgot it was a long weekend and was surprised to see Curt home earlier and even more surprised when he mentioned only returning to work on Tuesday hahahah).  I told you, this brain of mine is non functioning right now.

 

Hurry up Menopause, let's get this over and done with! 

{ Intentional and Purposeful Living }

 

 

I am turning 52 this year.  It feels strange to say that, but I am blessed and thankful to be here and to be able to post that.  I think knowing that every day we are given is a gift, helps us settle into the thought that our lives are ever changing, and the years keep on coming.

 

As we begin this new year of 2026, and also knowing just how fast the past few years have flown by, I have decided to go into this year with intentional and purposeful living.  To set aside all notions of goals and must do's and rather just live each day with as much joy and purpose as I can.  I want to be intentional about everything that I do, watch, read or create.

 

 

 

Over the past few years I have realized and understood, that I don't like going with the flow.  I don't like being like everyone else or fitting in.  I don't like doing, eating, working, making, or thinking like everyone else, matter of fact if the whole world likes something I tend to dislike it.  I don't know why, I don't know what to tell you other than it's the way I am wired but more so as the years go by and as I get older.

 

I often think back about my great grandmother Ema and the woman she was.  She liked what she liked, she did what she wanted and she never felt pushed or pressured to be something or someone she wasn't.  And yet, she lived a long 96 years and was happy every day.  

 

That's what I want for myself, that kind of life, the feeling of being who I am and not worrying that this one or that one may not approve or like it.  

 

So this year, I am going to focus on what I like and what makes me happy.  

 

 

 

I will read books about whatever strikes my fancy or interests me at the time.  If I only read one book this year, then that's fine, if I read 20 that's fine too, as long as it's because I wanted to and not because of a goal or list.  (Been there, done that, and constantly failed)

 

 

 

I am going to be intentional about the time I spend in the word and with God.  I want a stronger, closer relationship and for that I have to make the effort.  So I want to do more bible reading, more devotional reading, more bible study.

 

I want to stop eating things that I know are not good for me, and I want to be intentional about what I put into my body.  I don't want to feel pressured to eat this or that just because everyone else is.  I'm over that.  If I want eat it, I will, if I don't, I won't.

 

I want to stay focused on working out daily, even if it's just 10 minutes of walking.  Intentionally helping my body stay strong, and especially my bones as we know the older we get the weaker our bones become.  

 

I want to choose something to learn this year.  I love crochet but knitting has always been very basic for me, I have never really tried to learn or excel in it, and I want to change that this year.  With that in mind, I want to be intentional and purposeful with my time, and rather than scrolling on social media. I can have knitting needles in my hand and working on something useful.

 

 

 

I want to watch shows that are good, family oriented, educational.  I am going to watch only YouTube channels that teach me something or inspire me to be creative, to be a better mother and wife and homemaker.

 

These are just some examples of what I want to do, they're not goals but rather intentions.

 

 

 

I want to surround myself with pretty things, whether created by myself or bought.  Crocheted blankets and pillows, knitted socks, hats and mittens, old books, candles, vintage items.  I don't want to be told "oh that's not what everyone is using right now, that's out of fashion."  Good, I don't care, that just makes me want it even more.

 

So, now that you have an idea what I'm thinking of, here is just a small list of things I really want to get into or do.

 

Watch old movies and series I remember watching with my family, during my childhood.  Like Deer Hunter, The Killing Fields (Cambodia),  Dallas, Little House on the Prairie, Murder She Wrote etc.

 

I want to buy a record player and get all the oldies from thrift stores and antique stores to play.  Paul Anka, Phil Collins, The Pretenders, Julio Iglesias, Stevie Wonder.  There's so many that I want to get.

 

Reading mostly Christian Fiction, but also a lot of historical fiction along the lines of Phillipa Gregory and Alison Weir.  I want to learn more about Portugal's history, of course more England history but also want to get more into the history of the USA.  

 

 

All things that I want to do.  I don't think that I will fail because I've taken the pressure of feeling like I have to stick to some sort of goal or list.  These are things I'm interested in and want to do devote more time to, which means I will purposefully and intentionally focus on them because they make me happy.

 

How about you?  Are you going to be intentional this year too?  I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on this.

 

 

{ Wordless Wednesday }

{ Christmas books }

Well hello, hello, hello!

 

It has been a while since I've come in, sat down and actually talked to you about, well, anything at all.  My posts the past two months have been minimal if any, mainly just the Monday features.  I hate doing that, but sometimes that is what life throws our way.

 

We had a wonderful, blessed December with my family visiting from South Africa.  I thought at first that I would continue blogging or even doing Instagram stories, but decided against it.  I wanted to be in the moment, enjoying their time here and not holding onto my camera or phone.  We did take some pictures here and there for ourselves, but I didn't really share anything.

I am however back at it today, I am going to start sharing my days again on Instagram, so if you're interested come on over.  But don't fret if you don't, because I am planning on blogging as well, at least a few times a week.

 

So, I thought today I would start by sharing the books I got in December, some were gifts and some I purchased myself at our local antique store, and there is one from Thriftbooks as well.   

 

 

♥♥♥ Starting with Independence by Dana Fuller Ross.  This one caught my attention a few months ago, and I went ahead and added the whole collection to my Thriftbooks cart.  This is the first in a pretty big collection series that takes us through many States as men and women settled the West.

 

You know me, I love history and love anything to do with Pioneers and wagon trails, so this is going to be a wonderful series to read throughout the year.

 

 

Independence by Dana Fuller Ross 

When the Panic of 1837 creates hard times, a dauntless band of pioneering men and women journey from Long Island to Missouri with the hopes of eventually finding a better future in the rich Oregon Territory.

 

 

♥♥♥ The next two books I picked up at our local Antique store.  I absolutely love looking through the bookshelves and finding treasures.  As always the covers are what draw me in, the vintage looking homemaking life that is long gone by.  

 

 

The Trail of the Lonesome Pine by John Fox JR.

The novel's central love story, between a mountain girl and a flatland man, takes place in Big Stone Gap, a setting of lawless feuding and tensions resulting from the intense (and ultimately unsuccessful) outside investment in industry, of which Fox himself had been a part.

 

By the way, I didn't know but when looking up the book online, I found out that it was also a film so I may just watch it too.  I found a link to the movie online, here it is if anyone wants to give it a go as well.

 

 

 

The Corner Store by Albert Idell

The 1930s in Philadelphia on the corner of Camac and McClellan finds you at the corner store. It is a gathering place for the neighbors as well as the six Joneses, an institution—one like that found in many neighborhoods in the 1930s. Life is exciting, full of adventure, romance, crime, births, deaths, marriages, elopements—all told with humor and honesty of the problems and triumphs of ordinary people. 

 

 

♥♥♥ Megan Soja is an author that I have never read, but heard about through one of my favorite book YouTubers.  It is just the kind of series that I know I will enjoy, faith based, romance and historical.  

 

The Harbor of Spies is Megan's debut series, so I'm quite excited to read it.  I have chosen this series as my first read for 2026, with the first book being Spark of the Revolution.

 

 

Spark of the Revolution - Book 1 in the Harbor of Spies Series

Contrary to her name, Patience Abbott has long felt unsettled and anxious to leave behind her painful memories in England for a fresh start in America. But her new life isn’t quite what she expected, and as tension grows in her new home of Boston, so does the distance between Patience and her estranged father. So when Josiah Wagner walks into her life, it finally feels like she’s not alone. If only his patriotic leanings didn’t put him at odds with her father’s loyalties. 

 

Secrets of the Revolution - Book 2 in the Harbor of Spies Series

Hannah Pierce is determined to keep her father‘s apothecary shop running, despite his failing health, the heavy burden of her mother’s recent death, and the mysterious disappearance of her brother. She’ll do whatever it takes to preserve her family’s legacy, including joining a dangerous ring of patriot spies...and falling for a revolutionary printer with a brave heart. 

 

 

Scars of the Revolution by Megan Soja

Libby Caldwell has been in love with Isaac Harrison for years, ever since her late father befriended him. While her head knows there is no hope of sharing her life with a British soldier, her heart is much more difficult to convince, especially now that he is quartering in her home. With Boston under siege and battle looming, each day together forces her to recognize how deep her feelings truly are…and how forbidden.

 

 

 

The Viking by Carrie Cotten - Book 2 in The Huntress Medieval Christian Fiction

I got book 2 but have since ordered the first and third in the series.  

 

As a girl, Astrid washed up on the shores of the Picts, haunting memories of her homeland locked deep inside. She began a new life serving Queen Cyrene, ultimately becoming her dearest friend and the captain of her army. But when Cyrene’s unexpected marriage unites her people with the enemy realm of Tràigh, only Astrid’s dedication to the crown can help her battle her mistrust of these rival forces, especially their maddening captain, Eowin.

  

 

Pride and Prejudice Safe Box

Technically it's not a book but when we saw it while out shopping one day, Curt immediately picked it up for me.  I love that it's safe with a combination lock where I can keep personal items.  

 

 

♥♥♥ The next two are my picks for this year's devotional and bible studies.   

 

The 5 Minute Bible Study for Women:  Morning and Evening Edition

Do you find it hard to make time for Bible study? You intend to do it, but before you know it, another week has passed and you haven't picked up God's Word. This book provides simple tools for you to open the Bible twice a day and dig into God's Word--even if you only have five minutes!

• Minutes 1-2: Read a few verses pulled from a lengthier passage. If time allows, read the full passage listed for you in each Bible study.
• Minute 3: Understand. Consider thoughtful questions designed to help you apply the Bible verses to your own life.
• Minute 4: Apply. Read a brief devotional based on the scripture you read.
• Minute 5: Pray. A prayer starter will help you to begin a time of conversation with God.

The 5-Minute Bible Study for Women: Morning and Evening Edition will help you establish the discipline of consistent study of God's Word. You will find that even five minutes focused on scripture and prayer has the power to make a huge difference in your daily life. Soon you will be making time for more!  

 

The Bible in 52 Weeks by Dr. Kimberly D. Moore

When you need to lift your spirits or tackle life's challenges, the Bible is always there to offer guidance. This inspiring Bible study for women combines a daily reading plan with weekly opportunities to reflect, discuss, and explore how God's wisdom can be applied to your daily life.  

 

 

And there you have it, my Christmas book stash.  I can't wait to get into the first of the year, which as I mentioned above, will be Spark of the Revolution by Megan Soja.

 

I want to read more Christian fiction this year and hope to focus mainly on that genre, not to say I won't read others but that will be my main focus.

 

What are you reading this year?  Did you get any good books for Christmas? 

{ Happy Homemaker Monday - 01/12/2026 }

 

 

Good morning everyone, welcome back.

 

It is Monday morning, my family left yesterday afternoon and so this for me, marks the official kickoff of my new year, homemaking and getting back to business.  I have absolutely loved the month I had my brother, sister in a law and niece here, but as much as we love it, we also love routine and getting back to work.

 

I have a lot to do today, like a lot.  I have homemaking to catch up on, my groceries arriving this morning, need to reorganize my living room, make some appointments, plan my budget and all the fun stuff.

 

It may seem like a lot but I'm actually really looking forward to it, as well as getting back on track with my eating.  I went completely off my diet, and decided to just go with it and I did, but boy do I regret it now.  I put on 2 pounds which is not bad at all for a full month of eating everything and anything, but my stomach is not happy, so starting today, I am back on a low sugar and low carb diet, and can't wait.  

 

I hope you've all had a wonderful holiday season with your family, thank you for sticking around, but now, let's get back to business.  

 

Have a blessed week friends! 

Sandra

♥♥♥♥

 

 

 *** The Weather *** 

Unusually hot for this time of year, although we are finally getting some cold weather, and there's even the mention of some snow this coming weekend, though I don't see it at all reflected in the forecast, so I guess we will see!    

 

Monday - Partly cloudy, 65 

Tuesday - Sunny, 68 

Wednesday - Partly Cloudy, 62

Thursday - Sunny, 65

Friday - Sunny, 60

Saturday - Partly cloudy, 52 

Sunday - Sunny, 62

 

 

*** Right now I am *** 

Sitting in my bed.  We always give up our room to guests visiting, so the past month Curt and I have been sleeping on a blow up mattress in the living room.  It's a really nice mattress and quite comfortable, but after a month, I will be honest and say that I missed my bed and my bedroom.  So taking full advantage of it this morning, as I sit here in the warmth, with my babies sleeping next to me and a YouTube video.  

 

 

*** Thinking and pondering *** 

Trying to keep a running list of everything I need to do today, I may need to actually put it on paper even though I'm not a huge list fan. 

 

 

*** How I am feeling ***

Exhausted but excited to get back on my workout routine and eating healthy.  I am also really sad and missing my brother and family, just wish we didn't live thousands of miles away, across an ocean.    

 

 

*** On the breakfast plate *** 

I've had my first cup of coffee, just instant coffee with milk.  I will have my Nespresso coffee in about an hour, along with a yummy bowl of oatmeal.  

 

 

*** On the lunch plate *** 

Salad and Wingstop tenders which are leftover in the fridge. 

 

 

*** On the dinner plate *** 

Beer Battered Fish Fillets with homemade tartar sauce, tomato rice and zucchini in tomato sauce.  I will have all of that but will substitute cauliflower rice for the basmati rice.

  

 

*** On the menu *** 

 

Monday - Beer Battered Fish Fillets, homemade tartar sauce, roast potato wedges, zucchini in tomato sauce 

Tuesday -  Chicken Strogonoff, Rice, Beans, salad

Wednesday - Islak Burgers and Curly Fries (no fries for me)

Thursday - Roast Chicken, Garlic Spaghetti, Brussels sprouts 

Friday - Chili Dogs (I will probably have leftover chicken and Brussels sprouts

Saturday - BBQ Ribs, Baked Potatoes, Veggies

Sunday -  Chicken Parmesan, Egg Noodles, Garlic Bread and Salad 

 

*** What I am wearing *** 

Winter pajamas, will switch to comfy leggings and a tank top, with a cardigan over.  

 

 

*** On my reading pile *** 

I am so ready to get back to my daily Bible reading.  I will start that today, along with my new Devotional/bible study.

 

Also going to set aside A Falcon for a Queen by Catherine Gaskin.  I will finish it another time.  I got some new books for Christmas and want to start one of those.  I will share all of the new books with you tomorrow, in a different post.  

 

 

*** On my TV this week *** 

Will be trying to catch up with all my YouTube homemaking vlogs, and then my Turkish series as well as my usual series.  

 

 

 

*** Looking around the house *** 

Needs a lot of love right now.  I kept up with the daily chores but after a full house of family and get togethers and celebrations for a month, it is needing a lot of attention and I'm ready to get at it. 

 

 

*** To do list for today*** 

Daily homemaking chores

Water inside plants 

Putting away groceries

Making a budget for this month

Daily bible reading and devotional/bible study

Daily 10k steps

Daily workout 

 

 

*** What I am creating *** 

Getting back to my crochet blanket.  

 

 

*** From the camera *** 

Nothing again, but I promise there will be pictures next week. 

 

*** Devotional, Prayers, Bible Verses *** 

As the new year begins, a lot of us feel a bit anxious not knowing what is to come, so I try very hard to focus on the good and speak life and blessings over myself and my family for the year ahead.  

 

Here's a scripture to start your year with and to hold on to.  

 

I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. - Ezekiel 36:26

 

 

{ Happy Homemaker Monday - 01/05/2026 }

 

 

Good morning my friends, and welcome to the very first Happy Homemaker Monday of January2026.  Oh my, that sounds so strange to say.  I feel like 2025 was about 2 months long, that's how quick it feels to have gone.  

 

I hope you all had a wonderful start to the year, and I just want to wish you all a very blessed year ahead.  We don't know what the future holds, and that's always a bit scary for me, but I am praying and prophesying a good year, a blessed year and a year with miracles and wonders for all us.  

 

Right, now let's get on with our post, I have another busy week ahead.  My family will be leaving next Sunday so this week will be all about getting last minute trips done, last minute gifts shopped for, for the family back home and all that good stuff. 

 

I hope you all have a fantastic Monday and a blessed week ahead. 

 

Sandra

♥♥♥♥

 

 

 *** The Weather *** 

Confused would probably be the best way to describe our December and the beginning of January.  It's hot, then it's freezing and then it's hot again.  

 

Monday - Mostly Sunny, 79 

Tuesday - Mostly Sunny, 73 

Wednesday - Mostly Cloudy, 74

Thursday - AM showers, 72

Friday - Mostly Sunny, 65

Saturday - Sunny, 53 

Sunday - Sunny, 53

 

 

*** Right now I am *** 

Sitting on the couch, everyone else is asleep.  I am typing up this post, drinking a coffee and watching a video on YouTube.      

 

 

*** Thinking and pondering *** 

That this month has gone so quick and the family is already preparing to leave in a few days.  

 

 

*** How I am feeling ***

Tired.  That's the overall feeling the past month, just exhausted, but it's ok, I will get rest and recover next week.   

 

 

*** On the breakfast plate *** 

Just had a cup of coffee and will have some oatmeal later.  I have been eating awful, just awful, lots of junk food, take out, candy and cookies and chips.  All the things I don't eat normally and I'm over it.  hahah   

 

 

*** On the lunch plate *** 

Not sure, we have to run around today to get last minute things for family back home, so we may grab something.  Blech, I might just grab a salad while out.   

 

 

*** On the dinner plate *** 

I am making roast chicken, rice and sauteed cabbage.     

  

 

*** On the menu *** 

Have meals planned for today but next week will be grocery shopping day again.  I'm all over the place, haven't done a proper shopping the last month, just been grabbing here and there and that is NOT the way to do it.  I am ready to get back to a routine.

 

Monday - Roast chicken, rice and sauteed cabbage 

Tuesday -  Chicken Spaghetti, Salad

Wednesday - Islak Burgers and Curly Fries 

Thursday - Steaks, Twice Baked Potatoes, Broccoli and Cauliflower

Friday - Out in Oklahoma for the day

Saturday - BBQ Ribs, Macaroni and Cheese, Salad

Sunday -  Family leaving so we won't be home for dinner

 

*** What I am wearing *** 

Still in my pajamas, will switch to jeans and a top later.   

 

 

*** On my reading pile *** 

I finished the Bible Recap and will be restarting my Bible reading next week.  I also picked up a new Devotional/Bible Study that I am very excited to start as well. 

Still haven't finished A Falcon for a Queen by Catherine Gaskin, will be either finishing it next week, or I may set it aside and start fresh this year.  I got a few books for Christmas and am really excited to get into those, I will be sharing all that starting next week.  

 

 

*** On my TV this week *** 

 Trying to catch up on YouTube videos when I have a fee moment, which usually means very early morning while everyone is asleep.  Aside from that, lots of live Portuguese TV.  

 

We have also been watching some good movies.  We watched Eternity which was very sweet, and last night we watched Unsung Hero which tells the story of the Smallbone family who moved from Australia to the USA.  Their daughter Rebecca became a very well known singer and songwriter, and she goes by the name Rebecca St. James, if you are Christian you will no doubt know her music.  Her brothers Joel and Luke became the famous duo that is known as For King and Country, one of my favorite Christian bands.  

 

 

*** Looking around the house *** 

The Christmas decorations are down, the only thing that is still up is my village above the fireplace, and that's because my niece loves it and has asked me to leave it up until they leave.  So that will come down next Monday.  Everything else is packed and the house seems to empty.  It always feels like this the beginning of January.  

 

 

*** To do list for today*** 

Daily homemaking chores

Water inside plants 

Last minute shopping for South Africa

 

 

*** What I am creating *** 

I guess memories with the family, but nothing else.  Can't wait to pick up my crochet again. 

 

 

*** From the camera *** 

Nothing, I haven't been taking any pictures, just have really soaked in all the moments with the family and lived in that moment. 

 

*** Devotional, Prayers, Bible Verses *** 

Our Pastor's message at church yesterday was so good.   He talked about how our sins have been bought and paid in full, and we should go into the new year with that thought on our minds.  

{ New Year Fun 2025 }

Good morning my sweet friends.  I miss you all so much.  It has been a while since I've been able to sit down and open up my blog, for an actual post.

 

So here I am, with my usual end of year post, bringing a roundup of the posts throughout the whole of 2025.  The beginning of the year went off great, I was posting practically daily and was loving it, then the end part of the year things started getting busy and it all went downhill from there.  If it weren't for my Happy Homemaker Monday posts, I would have had zero updates here on the blog, and that is quite sad to think of.

 

Anyway, new year, and hopefully I will get back on track with posting, but it will have to wait until next week, as my family is still here, so starting January 12 with my Happy Homemaker Monday, it should kick off my usual daily blogs from there.  Fingers crossed!

 

Right, let's get on with it.  I wish you all a very prosperous and blessed 2026.  Ours was a difficult one with family deaths and family situations that are still ongoing.  But also some blessings with my niece visiting in July and now the whole family being here for Christmas.

 

I don't know what the year ahead holds, but I pray it is a good one for all of us.

 

 

 

January 2025

Hello, hello, welcome to the second day of January 2025.

 

You may be shocked to see another post from me, the third in a row.  Yes it's me, I haven't been hacked by a good blogger who posts all the time (hahah).  It really is me.  

 

 

 

February 2025

 

 

We are a family that loves playing games.  We play a game every night after dinner, and anytime there is a big get together, you will find groups all over my house, in little corners, playing different games.

 

 

March 2025

 

 

The sun streams through the windows and the softest of breezes plays amongst the sheer curtains.

 

After a much needed cup of coffee, I get myself ready for the day and start tackling the homemaking chores that await me. 

 

 

April 2025

 

 

A total throwback to the 80s and my childhood. This used to be one of my favorites back in the day. Such a fun tune to dance to.  

 

 

May 2025

 

 

“If you’re always racing to the next moment, what happens to the one you’re in? Slow down and enjoy the moment you’re in and live your life to the fullest.”

 

 

June 2025

 

  

I used to share a lot on Instagram stories, but lately I have chosen to really only take you with me, on the weekends.  I try to do a whole day with me, sharing little bits here and there, from the moment I wake up until nighttime.  

 

 

July 2025

 

  

It is officially July, and that means, Jane Austen and more Jane Austen.

 

I have been eagerly awaiting the start of this challenge, have gathered my books, have chosen my movies and have just sat not so patiently waiting for July 1st.

 

 

August 2025

 

 

 

Good morning everyone, and a very happy Monday to you all.  

We are already in the month of August, my birthday month, matter of fact, I'll be turning 51 on the 10th.  I feel like I just turned 18 and here I am, passing the 50 mark.  It's crazy to imagine but I am so blessed to be here, to be alive, to have been given this opportunity by God.  

 

 

September 2025

 

 

 

Good morning friends, guess what?  It is the first of September, the beginning of the BER months, and I couldn't be happier.  Looking forward to the cozy, warm season and very glad to see the heat behind us.  

 

 

October 2025

 

 

Welcome to the very first day of October, 2025.  

 

Ahhhh I have been anticipating saying that for so long.  Not that the weather is at all reflective of the month we are entering, but that's ok, one step at a time.

 

 

November 2025

 

I opened the blinds this morning, and was met by the welcoming sight of condensation on the window, creating a photo frame like appearance.  A random drop ran down leaving a crooked line that brought to life the trees outside while obscuring everything else around.

 

 

December 2025 

 

 

Good morning and a very happy December to you all.

 

Here we are, the beginning of the most glorious season, Christmas.  I am can't tell you how much I love this time of year, I look forward to it all year long, and when December arrives I am but bursting at the seams to get going with the festivities.