Happy Homemaker Monday - 03/25/2024

 

Good morning ladies, and a very happy Monday to you all!

 

I wish you a blessed week ahead, may it be filled with love and blessings.  

 

It is a dark, cloudy and rainy morning here in Texas.  We actually had funnel clouds over our area yesterday afternoon, Wichita Falls was even on the news due to the weather we experienced.  We are used to Tornado season but it usually doesn't start for a few more weeks, then again the weather has been completely bonkers all over, so I can't say I am surprised.

 

Anyway, it is time to see what we are all doing in our homes this week.  Are you all spring cleaning already or have you not started yet?  I'm a little late starting this year, mainly because I've been dealing with the pain in my hands which makes it difficult to get anything done.  But I will push through that and get going.

 

Now, let's see what our Happy Homemaker Monday brings us for today.

 

 

 

 *** The Weather *** 

Rainy weekend, and our first severe storms hit us as well.  It doesn't really look like we'll have much rain after this morning, and our temperatures are going to be just wonderful.  

 

Monday - Rain in the morning and sun after, 62

Tuesday - Partly cloudy, 58

Wednesday - Partly cloudy, 64

Thursday - Mostly sunny, 70

Friday- Partly cloudy, 79

Saturday - Mostly cloudy, 83

Sunday - Cloudy, 83

 

 

*** Right now I am *** 

Sitting on my bed while I work on this post.  I'm watching a homemaking vlog on the tv and as always, my furry babies are sleeping next to me.     

 

 

*** Thinking and pondering *** 

About spring cleaning, but mostly about Easter this coming weekend.         

 

 

*** How I am feeling ***

Headache and cramps....that should tell you all you need to know.  *wink*

 

 

*** On the breakfast plate *** 

I had my coffee, but will have some oats here in a bit.            

 

 

*** On the lunch plate *** 

Tuna and chickpea salad.      

 

 

*** On the dinner plate ***

Chicken Kebabs, Brussel Sprouts Salad 

 

 

*** On the menu *** 

Will be working on the new menu, so as always, will have meals until Thursday

 

Monday

Chicken Kebabs, Brussel Sprouts Salad

Tuesday 

Keto Lasagna, Garlic Bread, Salad   

Wednesday 

Fish Tacos, Cauliflower Cilantro Lime Rice

Thursday 

Lentil Chili with Polenta

*** What I am wearing *** 

In my comfy pajamas still, once I'm done with this post, I'll get changed into some sweats and a tank top.   

 

*** On my reading pile *** 

Book of Exodus in the Bible 

The Wind in the Willows

*** On my TV this week ***

Youtube - Brazilian and Portuguese Homemaking Vlogs, Slow Living and Quiet Vlogs 

Turkish shows - Hudutsuz Sevda, Ruzgarli Tepe, Bir Sevdadir, Gelin, Uc Kiz Kardes 

Sic Portugal TV - Senhora do Mar

 

*** Looking around the house *** 

It is quiet and dark.  Usually by now we have beautiful golden sun coming in through the windows, but with this rainy weather, there's none of that.   

 

 

*** To do list *** 

Usual homemaking

Bible and Devotional time

Reading time

Crochet time

Meal planning

 

 

*** From the camera *** 

Last week I shared some dried flowers and many of you wanted to know what I planned to do with them.  One of the things I'm doing, is using them to decorate my white candles.  I feel that as Spring comes around, there would be nothing sweeter than having some floral candles lit.   ♥

 

 

*** What I am crocheting or sewing ***

I had to slow down a little on the crocheting because of the pain in my hand.  But, I'm only 4 rows away from finishing Part 4.  

 

It's frustrating to want to do more but being limited by my hand pain.  With that in mind, I've been looking at crochet hooks that help with arthritis, and will be getting some this week.  

 

I am also going to be doing some sewing this week.  I have some chickens and some birds to make for decorations, but also want to make some fabric book covers again, I don't know what I ever did to the ones I made years ago.  Anyway, I'll share those with you this week.

 

 

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

I have felt led to read the book of Exodus, and I have read it before, but I think God is really trying to highlight the world that we are currently living in, with the Exodus of the Old Testament.  It is crazy just how similar the circumstances are between then and now.  Do yourself a favor, read the book of Exodus. 

 

Spring Time - Movies to get you in the mood

 

“Is the spring coming?" he said. "What is it like?"... 

 "It is the sun shining on the rain and the rain falling on the sunshine...”

 ___Frances Hodgson Burnett, The Secret Garden

 

We have looked at Spring books and we have also taken a peek at some Spring time TV shows, to get you in the mood for the season.  Now, we turn our attention to movies, which put a huge smile on my face, because together with books I think, we have the best selection to really make you look forward to Spring time. 

 

Some of these are just plain classics that you for sure will already have watched, and didn't even realize just how Springy, they truly were. 

 

So without further ado, let's grab our cups of tea, a pencil and notebook, and make a list of the movies that will not only make us smile big, but make us want to run outside barefoot through tall green grass. 

 

Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Not just because it's Jane Austen, or because the 2005 version of Pride and Prejudice is my favorite, but also because this movie, thisssss movie, just embodies Spring to me.  

The landscapes, the gorgeous costumes and the cinematography, sprawling fields and flowers, beautiful lakes and of course the most wonderful romance between Elizabeth and Darcy.  

You can watch on Peacock, or rent on Amazon Prime, YouTube and Apple TV.  

Tuck Everlasting

We're going back in time.  It's been so long, since I first watched Tuck Everlasting, but it needs to be added to this list.  The movie is about Winnie who lives a very controlled life, where she feels stifled by her mother and her controlling ways.  She dreams of freedom and being able to do what she wants, and that is exactly what happens, when one day she goes running through the woods behind her house.

She meets Tuck, who takes her back to meet his family who live a life very different to what Winnie is used to.  It's just such a sweet movie, and is filled with gorgeous scenery and beautiful moments of the two running through fields of flowers, and sitting by a river.  Just watch it, if you haven't.

Watch on Disney+ or rent from Amazon Prime.

 

 

 

This Beautiful Fantastic 

Here's a movie you may not have even heard about, and probably haven't seen.  It stars one of my favorite actresses who actually played Sybil in Downton Abbey, Jessica Brown Findley.

This movie follows Bella who again lives a life with some pretty rigid routines and schedules, she is lonely, reclusive and her only dreams are to write children's books.  She lives alone in an apartment in London and doesn't get out much.  The story kicks off when Bella meets a widower, who lives next door.  He is cranky and annoying but he is amazing with plants and flowers and gardens.  

Bella is facing eviction because her garden is completely neglected, so she hires him to help her.  I'm sure you know where this is headed.  But yes, just watch, you will love this fairy tale with a beautiful garden and stunning flowers.

Watch on Starz for free, or rent from Amazon.

Miss Potter

Ahhhhh what to even say about Miss Potter?  Who doesn't know about Beatrix Potter?  If there was to be a picture on the word Spring in the dictionary, it would have to be Beatrix Potter and her sweet critters.

 

This movie takes us on the journey of Beatrix and how she became the well known author we've all grown to love.  I actually just watched this one a few days ago.  Her parents want her to get married and they even have someone in mind already, but she is not having it.  All Beatrix wants to do is continue to draw the animals that she loves.  In the movie we follow her journey, as she tries to get someone to publish her work but she is met with resistance, over and over again.  Until she finally has an offer from a small publishing firm.

 

And the rest as they say is history, because she became one of the biggest names around.  I mean, Peter Rabbit anyone?

 

You can watch for free on Amazon Prime.

 

 

 

The Secret World of Arrietty

I am not sure if many of you are familiar with the Studio Ghibli movies, who is a Japanese animation studio most famous for Spirited Away.  I will say I don't usually watch anime of any kind, it's just not my cup of tea, but I loved Spirited Away and this one I'm about to tell you about, is absolutely beautiful and just perfect for Spring.

If you love cottages and sweet country homes, with gardens and flowers and cute little people living in the walls of houses.  Do you remember The Borrowers, or The Littles?  It's like that.

Arrietty lives with her parents inside the walls of a human family, and she has no contact with them at all because of course, she's been taught that they are dangerous.  But a chance encounter with the the human boy in the house, changes everything.

I can not tell you just how much I love this movie, I actually bought it on Amazon so I can watch it anytime I want.

Watch on Amazon Prime.

 

 

 

Peter Rabbit  

Just look at this picture and tell me this doesn't scream Spring?  How adorable is that?

Now Peter Rabbit and his family are living in the house that Mister McGregor used to own before passing away.  Unfortunately his nephew arrives to take the house, and claim the inheritance, something that Peter and his family are not happy about.  

What ensues is a funny and cute adventure as they do all sorts of things, a full out war with the nephew to see who wins the house.  Unfortunately things get out of hand, and they have to end up making peace and working together.

You can watch for free on Amazon prime.

Take Joy:  The Magical World of Tasha Tudor

Not a movie but a documentary that I think everyone who loves gardens, and loves Tasha Tudor in general, needs to watch.

Tasha Tudor is a name that is synonymous with homemaking and loving for and taking care of your home and gardens.  For the first time, Tasha allowed a crew to enter her home and follow her on a normal day.  It is a magnificent glimpse into her life, and the incredible woman that she was.  You have to watch it, it will definitely get you in the mood for the season.

You can watch it for free on Tubi.

There are so many others that I could sit here for days, just talking and sharing, but I think this list is enough to kick start you, or at the very least give you ideas of the kind of movies you could be watching at the moment.

 

A few others that I can think of right now:

 

The Secret Garden

Nanny McPhee

All of the Jane Austen Adaptations

Far from the Madding Crowd

Jane Eyre

Basically, anything with cottage vibes, picnics, beautiful country homes and luscious gardens.  

Let me know in the comments if you have a favorite movie that has all of those requirements.

Spring time - TV Shows to get you in the mood

Welcome back sweet friends, sit down and stay a bit.  Grab a piece of paper and maybe take some notes, because I have a list of the best Spring time TV shows, to get you in the mood for the season.

Some of these I watch every year, and some are new suggestions that I still need to catch up on myself.  I gave you the books yesterday, today we are focusing on TV and tomorrow I'll bring you some movies.

Are you ready?

 

The Great British Bake Off

 

I have to start with one of my absolute favorites and MUST watch, every year.  If you've never sat down and indulged in The Great British Bake Off, you really are missing out.  Aside from the amazing baking and the competition itself, I love the scenery, I love the tent and the springy feels that it brings to mine.  Everything is pretty and floral and pastel.  

It is available to watch on Netflix, there are quite a few seasons, and I do advise you to watch every single one.  You won't regret.

Now the original name IS Bake Off but here in the States they changed it to Baking Show.  I don't know why, I don't understand, but it's the same thing.  You can watch it on Netflix through this link.

All Creatures Great and Small

This is a classic and if you have PBS and enjoy Period Dramas like I do, I'm sure you've already watched at least one season.  It is set in the Yorkshire Dales and follows the life of a young veterinarian named James Herriot.  It is actually based on real life and his experiences from 1940 to 1992.  

I absolutely love watching this show, not just for the period drama aspect but the gorgeous Yorkshire scenery, the green hills, the little farm houses and all the sweet animals.  

You can watch every season on PBS Masterpiece.

Lark Rise to Candleford

Ohh my word.  This is such a gem and yet not very well known to many.  Aside from being one of the best period dramas you could watch, it just screams Spring to me, I don't know why.

In this adaptation of Flora Thompson's memoir of her childhood, Laura Timmins leaves the Oxfordshire hamlet of Lark Rise for a job in the market town of Candleford, where her mother's cousin, effervescent Dorcas Lane, is postmistress. Farm workers, craftsmen and gentry make up the community of families, rivals, friends and neighbours. Throughout the series, residents of both places interact at the best and the worst of times, including a measles epidemic that threatens the harvest and the arrival of new Post Office Inspector Mr. Rushton.

I fell in love with this show back when we were stationed in Arizona, and since then I've always wanted to re watch it, but it's been hard to find a place to watch for free. Until now, because guess what?  It is available for free on the Roku Channel.  I am thrilled.

If you've never watched Lark Rise to Candleford, you're in for a treat.

Frog and Toad

I know, it's a children's animated series, but it is a definite must watch for spring time.   It is based on the very well known children's book written by Arnold Lobel, and no one says that just because we are adults, we can't enjoy these treasures, right?

Follows two amphibian friends striving to balance the great outdoors and home pleasure, as they are thrown from one optimistic adventure to another.

 

 You can watch the series on Apple TV.

Bridgerton

Of course, could not have a spring time list without mentioning Bridgerton.  It is set in the Regency era in England, and you can count on seeing lavish beautiful homes, gorgeous gardens, flowers and bees and Balls.  It is very much a period drama that many will enjoy.  There are currently 2 Seasons available to watch on Netflix, and the 3rd season is scheduled to be released in May.  

 

The World of Peter Rabbit and Friends

Yes another animated series, but there is such a peace and calming effect that these children's series, invoke in us.  Maybe it's a way to transport us back to our childhood, maybe it's a way to feel safe, to feel connected to a simpler and sweeter, more innocent time.  Whatever that feeling may be, I think that The World of Peter Rabbit and Friends is a must watch, especially during Spring.

Lucky for us, you can watch the entire series on YouTube.  I have the link for you below. 

 

And that is it my friends. There aren't too many tv shows but I'll be back tomorrow with some amazing, movie recommendations you surely will not want to miss. 

 

If you have any suggestions yourself, be sure to share them down below, so the rest of us can add them to our list.  

 

Have a blessed day friends, I hope you found something on this post that you can enjoy.

Spring Time - Books to get you in the mood

 

A lot of us are probably still dealing with cold weather, or random days of coldness.  I am, and although it disappoints me each time the thermometer drops back to the 30s, I don't let it get me down.  I am determined to enjoy the arrival of Spring, to prepare for the arrival of this beautiful season and to not let anything else get in the way of that joy.

 

With that said, I often do a few things to get me in the mood, so to speak.

 

If you've been on YouTube for a while, you may have seen some videos floating around about this very thing.  A lot of wonderful, visually stunning videos giving us recommendations of books to read, shows to watch or movies to enjoy during Spring, and the days leading up to it.

 

I thought, why not share what I will be reading or watching in the upcoming weeks.

 

Are you ready?

 

Spring for me, has always been a season of growing, of reemerging and renewing.  

 

After the long, cold, dark days of Winter, we see the first flash of green in the garden.  We hear the birds, we see the plants coming alive.  It's almost like getting a new chance at life, of redoing things and maybe fixing or making better something already in place.

 

 

First things first......Books!  

Nothing can quite get you in the mood for Spring, like a good book, the type that talks about Spring or cottages, little forest animals and beautiful gardens.  

One of the best authors that I have to start with, and just wouldn't do it justice if I didn't, is Louisa May Alcott.  Aside from Jane Austen, I will say she is one of my absolute favorites, along with L.M. Montgomery who penned Anne of Green Gables (yes, that's on the list too, just sit tight).

When you hear the name Louisa May Alcott, you no doubt immediately think of one of her most famous books, Little Women, which I have along with Little Men and Jo's Boys, both of which are on my bookshelf as well.  One that is not as well known, maybe because it's a children's story, is Under the Lilacs.

I received this beautiful copy, just last week, when I found it on Paperbackswap.  It is in perfect condition and just so absolutely beautiful.  The cover itself is gorgeous and then of course, you open the pages and are met not only with a delightful story but gorgeous illustrations.

I don't know about you all, but I still very much love illustrated children's books.

 

Under the Lilacs by Louisa May Alcott

 

A delightful children’s story that revolves round the antics and exploits of Bab and Betty Moss, their neighbour Miss Celia, a circus runaway called Ben Brown, and his dog, Sancho. This heart-warming and timeless story is perfect for bedtime reading, and would make for a worthy addition to any family collection.

 

 

Anne of Green Gables.  We can't have a Spring reading list without including this classic.  I am going to assume that you've read the book and watched the series, but if you haven't, you are in for a treat.  I fell in love with Anne of Green Gables when we were stationed at Mountain Home AFB in Idaho.  My kids were little, like 7 and 3 years old.

 

From that moment, I became obsessed with anything to do with Anne, Prince Edward Island, and so on.  I read the books, I watched series, though I have to say, I did not enjoy the Anne with an E series on Netflix, it just wasn't for me.

 

Anyway, if you don't know about Anne here is a brief summary.  Oh and if you enjoy audio books, you can actually listen to the whole book on YouTube, just follow this link.

 

 

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

 

Anne Shirley, an eleven-year-old orphan, has arrived in this verdant corner of Prince Edward Island only to discover that the Cuthberts—elderly Matthew and his stern sister, Marilla—want to adopt a boy, not a feisty redheaded girl. But before they can send her back, Anne—who simply must have more scope for her imagination and a real home—wins them over completely.  

 

Next on the list is another favorite and this one I think you all have heard about.  The Wind in the Willows.  Ahhhhh another gorgeous book with a sweet tale to tell.  Picnics, rivers, little sweet homes in the forest, flowers, it's just a compilation of everything that will get you in the mood for the season.

 

The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame

Friendly Rat, mild-mannered Mole, wise Badger, and kind—but conceited—Toad all live on the banks of the Thames. While Mole and Rat are content to go out in a row boat or travel the roads in a caravan, Toad prefers the excitement of motor cars. He’s already wrecked seven! While his friends try to keep him out of trouble, his passion for cars eventually results in his being caught and kept prisoner in the remotest dungeon of the best-guarded castle in all the land. Somehow, he has to escape and get home but what will he find when he gets there?

 

The Secret Garden.....what to even say about this classic other than you have to read it.  Not just for Spring, anytime of the year, but especially during Spring time.  Luscious gardens, Yorkshire landscapes and of course a beautiful colonial house.

 

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

On the grounds of Misselthwaite, her Uncle Archibalds estate near the Yorkshire moors, nine-year-old Mary Lennox finds a walled-in garden that has been locked securely for years. With the help of Dickon Sowerby, a young local boy who can charm animals, Mary cultivates the garden, an experiences that both improves her health and raises her spirits. Ultimately, the secret garden proves beneficial not only to to Mary, but to her sickly cousin Colin, whom her estranged uncle has locked away in solitude following the death of his beloved wife, Colins mother. Nurtured with love and tenderness, the secret garden proves it has the power to heal the heart.

 

We also can't think of Spring without immediately thinking of Beatrix Potter and her cute, quirky stories.  The Tale of Hill Top Farm is the first in the Susan Wittig Albert Series The Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter.

If you love talking animals, woods, cute little critters scurrying about and even some mystery, then you need this series in your life.  I have started collecting, and only have 4 of the series, but I am always on the lookout for the remaining books.

 

The Tale of Hill Top Farm by Susan Wittig Albert

In this first Cottage Tale, Albert introduces Beatrix, an animal lover and Good Samaritan with a knack for solving mysteries. With help from her entourage of talking animal friends, Beatrix sets out to win over the human hearts of Sawrey, where she’s just bought an old farm–and plans to stay.

 

Now I wouldn't be me, if I didn't add in a Jane Austen book or two.  Not really actually written by Jane Austen this time, but about her per say.  The Man who loved Jane Austen, is not exactly spring related but I'm including it anyway.  

If you're a huge Jane Austen fan like I am, I think it's best not to go into this one thinking that it will do her writing justice, after all it is a fiction book written by someone else.  But if you enjoy a quick, funny, witty romance then this will be it.  

 

The Man who loved Jane Austen by Sally Smith O'Rourke

Aftering discovering a letter to Jane Austen from Fitzwilliam Darcy--a supposedly fictional character--in the back of her antique vanity's mirror, New York artist Eliza Knight, deciding to research this mystery from the past, searches for the only man who knows the truth.

 

 

And finally, Willoughby's Return, again not specifically Spring related, but it's one I've been waiting to read for a long time, and I think it deserves to be on my list for the next month.

 

Willoughby's Return by Jane Odiwe

In Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility, when Marianne Dashwood marries Colonel Brandon, she puts her heartbreak over dashing scoundrel John Willoughby in the past.

 

Three years later, Willoughby's return throws Marianne into a tizzy of painful memories and exquisite feelings of uncertainty. Willoughby is as charming, as roguish, and as much in love with her as ever. And the timing couldn't be worse—with Colonel Brandon away and Willoughby determined to win her back, will Marianne find the strength to save her marriage, or will the temptation of a previous love be too powerful to resist?

I hope this list gave you some ideas, or maybe inspires you to gather your favorite Spring books and start reading.

Happy Homemaker Monday - 03/18/2024

 

Good morning ladies, welcome back to my little cold corner of the internet.  Yes it is cold, currently 35 degrees, so quite nippy out there.  Nevertheless, welcome, make yourselves at home, I'll pour you a cup of coffee or tea.

 

It is hard for me to believe that we are already pretty much halfway through the month of March, my word.  In a few weeks my kids will have their birthdays, Jasmine is turning 25 and Nicholas 21.  Just wow!!!

 

Anyway, it's time to see what is happening around our homes, so step on in out of the cold, and let's chat a little.  

Have a blessed week friends ♥ 

 

 

 

 *** The Weather *** 

Just like last weekend, we went from 90 degree weather, to 30s again.  This weekly weekend Winter nonsense, needs to stop already.  I want to get my garden going.  I know I'm impatient but I honestly can't wait to get a good harvest this year. 

 

Monday - Sunshine, 60

Tuesday - Sunny, 73

Wednesday - Partly cloudy, 73

Thursday - Thunderstorms, 68

Friday- Sunny, 73

Saturday - Partly cloudy, 76

Sunday - Cloudy, 75

 

 

*** Right now I am *** 

In bed, under the warm covers, with my heater turned on in the corner of the bedroom.  I am working on this post, while the furry babies sleep next to me, under their blankets.  Anyone else's pets always have to sleep under blankets?   

 

 

*** Thinking and pondering *** 

I need to start my Spring cleaning, so really must sit down and make a list.       

 

 

*** How I am feeling ***

Hungry.  I am just being honest.  Aside from that I'm doing well, but my hands are quite sore today.  I did a lot of yard ward and mowing yesterday, to help my husband.  He did practically the whole 3 acres, aside from our enclosed back yard, which I did.  However, with the Osteoarthritis, it was a bit much and today I'm paying for it, but it was worth it.   

 

 

*** On the breakfast plate *** 

I already had my coffee, as always.  For breakfast I am going to have 90 second Keto Bread, toasted with some smart balance butter.          

 

 

*** On the lunch plate *** 

Made a lentil salad yesterday which will be mainly my lunches, for the week.  All I do is add some protein each day, will add tuna today, tomorrow sardines, then eggs etc.    

 

 

*** On the dinner plate ***

Fish Fillets, Garlic Parsley Potatoes and Garlic Spinach.  I'll have maybe 2 little potatoes, and mostly spinach and some lentil salad. 

 

 

*** On the menu *** 

 

Monday

Fish Fillets, Garlic Parsley Potatoes and Garlic Spinach

Tuesday 

Low Carb Orange Chicken, Cauliflower Rice, Steamed Broccoli   

Wednesday 

Greek Baked Meatballs, Whole Wheat Macaroni, Salad

Thursday 

Pork roast with Brown Rice, Tomato and Cucumber salad

Friday

Chicken Kebabs, Brussel Sprouts

Saturday

Feijoada (Portuguese Bean Stew), Basmati rice (cauliflower rice for me)

Sunday

Gnocchi Bolognese, Garlic Bread, Salad

*** What I am wearing *** 

Winter pajamas for now, not sure what I'll put on but maybe some sweat pants and a tank top. 

 

*** On my reading pile *** 

Book of Romans in the Bible 

Finishing Trials of the Earth by Mary Mann Hamilton

The Wind in the Willows is next

*** On my TV this week ***

Youtube - Brazilian and Portuguese Homemaking Vlogs, Slow Living and Quiet Vlogs 

Turkish shows - Hudutsuz Sevda, Ruzgarli Tepe, Bir Sevdadir, Gelin, Uc Kiz Kardes 

Sic Portugal TV - Senhora do Mar

Reshma asked me for some of the Portuguese Homemaking and Slow Living Vlogs.  This is a current favorite of mine, Sabor de Casa Feliz.  They are a Brazilian family, and I just absolutely love watching her quiet slow loving videos. 

 

 

*** Looking around the house *** 

I need to give my carpets a good clean again.  We've had quite a bit of rain, and if you have doggies that go in and out, you will understand my dilemma. 

 

 

*** To do list *** 

Usual homemaking

Bible and Devotional time

Reading time

Crochet time

Spring Recommendations Blog Post

 

 

*** From the camera *** 

Don't you just love dried flowers?  I don't know why I don't do this more often, but I plan to gather as many as I can this Spring and Summer, and create a collection of dried flowers.  ♥

 

*** What I am crocheting ***

I promised you I would show you my current crochet progress.  As you can see, first 3 parts are done, and I've started the 4th.  I am just a few rows from finishing Part 4 as well.   

 

 

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

Facing disappointment and failure?  Don't be surprised - you're still flawed and your would is still fallen.  For this, there's grace. 

- Morning and Evening by Charles Spurgeon -  

My week in review

 

It's been a bit of a.....I don't even know how to put it week?  I've felt a bit unmotivated and frustrated with my new diet.  Let me say, that is completely normal, when you're used to eating a certain way, with no restraints, for almost 50 years, and then have to change dramatically, it takes a bit of getting used to.

 

For the most part I've been fine, but I won't lie and say that every day is great.  There are days that my rebellious body starts craving things I know I can't have, and then I feel miserable, and then  I'm frustrated, and then I'm hungry and frustrated and angry and miserable.  You get the picture.

 

I merely want to be completely honest here on the blog.  If you're on the same health journey that I am, you will no doubt understand the ups and downs.

 

It's often hard to get out of that slump, but I've pushed myself to do it, and I find that when I need to break out of a slump, I gravitate towards something that I really enjoy doing.  It lifts my mood and helps me feel better.

 

For me, it's been reading.  I have this crazy love and hate relationship with reading, not books in themselves, I adore books and am always buying booking even if they sit on my shelves for months waiting to be picked up again.  But the reading, I go through phases where I devour books and phases where I don't touch a single page.  Crazy!!!

 

 

If you're stuck in a reading slump, the best advice I can give you from my own experience, is to get yourself some favorites, and create a little reading pile of maybe 4 or 5 books that you've been wanting to ready for a long time, then go from there.  

I am currently reading, and almost finished, with Trials of the Earth.  It reminds me a bit of my all time favorite book These is my Words by Nancy E. Turner, so I'm enjoying it.

Next on the list will probably be Anne of Green Gables, to welcome in Spring.

 

 

 

So this week I finished organizing and cleaning up the bookshelves, and have made a little pile to post on Paperbackswap (if you don't know what it is, and you love books, you need to check it out). I also grabbed one of my baskets to pop in a few books that will potentially be in my Spring reading list. We will see! 

 

 

 

Crocheting has also kept me sane this week.  I don't think I've enjoyed crocheting a blanket as much as I'm enjoying this one.  Don't get me wrong, I love all my crochet blankets, and some were quite fun to make, but they did require a lot of stitch counting and pulling apart and redoing and sometimes, I felt like the project was never ending.

This one works up so quick and every section is a new design I have never done, plus I'm learning and getting better at reading and following a crochet chart.  It's just been a lovely experience all around.

 

I've also been preparing for Spring in the garden, and inside.  My house plants are loving my bedroom windows, and so it's become an area for them to converge, and also a little nursery.  I recently purchased a Basil plant from the store, and I will tell you immediately that I have zero luck with keeping Basil alive in my house.  It just doesn't want to live, no matter what.

That is until I decided to put it on my bedroom windowsill, and wouldn't you know it, it is loving this spot.  It's ready to be planted in a bigger pot, and moved out to the patio with the rosemary and mint, which also were brought to my bedroom first to grow and thrive, before being moved to a bigger planter.

Guess that will be what I do from now on.  Whatever, if it works, it works right?

 

I've also gone through my current works in progress, to know exactly what I am working on.  The bag above was part of my Advent Calendar, and it contains all the projects that came with it.  I did post a bit on it back in December, so be sure to go back and see that if you're wondering what I got each day.

The bag itself makes me smile so big, it's beautiful, and I love the whole Woodland animal vibe.

Of course mixed in between all those fun things, is the continuous homemaking that a woman has to contend with, on a daily basis. 

A lot of washing, folding and ironing.  Good thing I love ironing and find it calming and relaxing, or I would have been in a bit of a pickle, and no doubt adding to my unmotivated, frustrating mood of a week.

I just pop in a movie and go for it. 

Last week's movies were Damsel from Netflix, which was just a sweet movie with dragons and princesses and such.  The kind of fantasy movie I always enjoy.

I also started watching (haven't yet finished) Roald and Beatrix: The Tale of the curious mouse.  Beatrix Potter and anything related just screams Spring to me, so that was a must.  

I am compiling a blog post with the Spring books I will be reading, and also suggestions for movies and tv shows to help welcome in the Spring season.  

For now though, I am going to sign off, watch a homemaking vlog or two and then get started with yard work, because we are expecting quite heavy rain for the rest of the day.  It's best to get this all mowed and taken care of before the rain comes down, and grows it all back up another inch or two.

I hope you all have a blessed Saturday, and I'll see you back tomorrow with that Spring post.

 

Happy Homemaker Monday - 03/11/2024

 

 

Good morning ladies, and a very Happy Monday to you all.

 

I feel a little out of it this morning, this time change always messes me up.  I was up at what I thought was 4:45 am yesterday morning, knowing that our Rooster would soon start crowing and it would be time to open the coop up.  What I didn't realize is that the time had changed and it was only 3:45 am.  Yes, I was up in the middle of the night, for no reason at all.  Hahahah  

 

Sure wish this time change nonsense would end.  

 

Anyway, let's see what is happening around our homes this week, shall we?  

 

Have a blessed week friends ♥ 

 

 

 

 *** The Weather *** 

Remember when I said I thought Winter was definitely gone?  Well, it decided to laugh in my face and show back up this weekend.  We hit 30 degrees and it was bitter cold, had to turn the heater back on for the chickens in the coop and provide blankets etc.  Glad I didn't put any seeds in the ground yet.

 

Monday - Cloudy skies, 72

Tuesday - Sunny, 79

Wednesday - Sunny, 85

Thursday - Thunderstorms, 76

Friday- PM showers, 60

Saturday - Mostly cloudy, 66

Sunday - Partly cloudy, 65

 

 

*** Right now I am *** 

In my bed, of course, with the laptop on my lap working on this post.  Kaia and Elliott are asleep next to me, and hubby is getting ready for work in the office. 

 

 

*** Thinking and pondering *** 

About Easter coming up, I need to talk with my sister in law about our meal plan, and also need to figure out what I'll be eating for Easter.  I can have some ham but none of the carbs like the potatoes (which I love).     

 

 

*** How I am feeling ***

I'm doing well, I am now down 18 pounds.  I've also realized that my body does not do well with carbs at all.  I had lasagna roll ups for dinner last week, and even though I just had 2, it immediately affected me.  I couldn't sleep well that night, I was sluggish, I had no energy.  

 

So safe to say, my body is now adapted to veggies and very minimal carbs and it needs to stay that way. 

 

 

*** On the breakfast plate *** 

I've had my cup of coffee, and will have some oatmeal for breakfast later.        

 

 

*** On the lunch plate *** 

Tuna and chickpea salad.  

 

 

*** On the dinner plate ***

Bacon Spaghetti (brown spaghetti), Cucumber and Tomato Salad, Garlic Bread (mine will be Keto bread) 

 

 

*** On the menu *** 

Starting the new meal plan on Thursday, so will work on the new menu the next few days

 

Monday

Bacon Spaghetti (brown spaghetti), Cucumber and Tomato Salad, Garlic Bread  

Tuesday 

Swedish Turkey Meatballs, Brown Rice, Salad (Cauliflower rice for me)  

Wednesday 

Greek Quesadillas, Lentil Salad 

Thursday 

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

*** What I am wearing *** 

Last week this time I was wearing my summer nightgown, today I'm wearing my winter pajamas.        

 

 

*** On my reading pile *** 

Book of Romans in the Bible 

Trials of the Earth by Mary Mann Hamilton

*** On my TV this week ***

Youtube - Brazilian and Portuguese Homemaking Vlogs, Slow Living and Quiet Vlogs 

Turkish shows - Hudutsuz Sevda, Ruzgarli Tepe, Bir Sevdadir, Gelin, Uc Kiz Kardes 

Sic Portugal TV - Senhora do Mar

 

*** Looking around the house *** 

I've been changing things slightly here and there.  It's amazing how a new shelf, or a picture just instantly brightens up a room.  

 

In the dining room, I have all my cookbooks in a corner, piled up, because I removed them from the bookshelf in the living room and am planning to display them above the kitchen cabinets.

 

 

*** To do list *** 

Usual homemaking

Meal plan

Bible and Devotional time

Reading time

Crochet time

 

 

*** From the camera *** 

I love this photo, I feel it perfectly encapsulates my life and slow living. 

 

      

 

*** What I am crocheting ***

I started Part 3 of the Nordic Blanket.  Will come back and show the progress this morning, just need to wait until the sunrises to get a good picture for you all. 

 

 

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

Of course you haven't been fulfilled in this world.  It's a sign that you have been designed for a world to come. 

- Morning and Evening by Charles Spurgeon -