A Life of One’s Own

A Life of One’s Own

I love the excitement of Christmas; the lights, the presents, the family gatherings,  the decorating, Hallmark movies, the whole she-bang.  But I have to admit that New Year’s has its own charms.  This week between Christmas and New Years lends itself to much personal reflection, and for those of us who are introverts, we are…

Let’s Make Jam

Let’s Make Jam

Possibly one of my greatest pleasures, is a pantry or larder full of jams, jellies, preserves, marmalades, pickles and chutneys that all add dimension and quality to my meals. They can easily take a frugal meal from bland to extraordinary, and create the perfect balance of tastes. A sweet chutney next to a hot spicy…

The Value of Puttering

The Value of Puttering

Puttering is really a time to be alone, to dream, to get in touch with yourself…to putter is to discover. –Alexandra Stoddard I believe an afternoon of puttering is good for the soul. It is really the one thing that separates a housekeeper and a homemaker.  We putter, we tweak, we rearrange, snug up and…

Everyday Romance

Everyday Romance

As we travel into midlife, many of us tend to carry a lot of baggage with us. We bring negative self-talk and self-doubt, in spite of a lifetime of successes. We have an inexplicable need to apologize for things that don’t require apologies. We bring with us a trunk full of bad habits that self-sabotage…

Preparing for a Calm and Intentional Holiday Season
|

Preparing for a Calm and Intentional Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and celebration, but it can easily become overwhelming with endless to-do lists, gatherings, and expectations. By setting a mindful, empowered tone, you can enjoy a season that reflects what truly matters to you. Here are some empowering tips to help you prepare for a calm, intentional…

Creating a Cozy Grandmacore Aesthetic for Autumn: Embrace Comfort and Nostalgia
|

Creating a Cozy Grandmacore Aesthetic for Autumn: Embrace Comfort and Nostalgia

Autumn is a season synonymous with warmth, comfort, and reflection. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, there’s no better time to embrace a cozy grandmacore aesthetic. This charming style, characterized by its nostalgic and comforting elements, brings the spirit of a traditional autumn into your home. Here’s how you can cultivate this…

Self-Care in the Autumn: Nurturing Your Well-Being During the Season of Change
| |

Self-Care in the Autumn: Nurturing Your Well-Being During the Season of Change

Autumn, with its cool breezes, falling leaves, and cozy vibes, is a season of transformation. As nature changes, so too can our approach to self-care. While summer may be all about outdoor adventures, autumn invites us to slow down, reflect, and focus on nurturing our well-being. Here are some ideas and tips for practicing self-care…

Make Rosewater Shortbread Cookies for Valentine’s Day
| |

Make Rosewater Shortbread Cookies for Valentine’s Day

Enjoy the delightful taste of rosewater with these simple yet delicious Rosewater Shortbread Cookies. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, these cookies make a thoughtful homemade gift. Follow this easy recipe to create a batch of these charming treats. Here’s a simple recipe for Rosewater Shortbread Cookies: Recipe Ingredients: Instructions: These delicate and fragrant Rosewater Shortbread Cookies…

The Timeless Tradition of Valentine’s Day: A Journey Through History and the Art of Love Messages
| |

The Timeless Tradition of Valentine’s Day: A Journey Through History and the Art of Love Messages

Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, is a day dedicated to love, romance, and heartfelt expressions of affection. While today it’s often associated with the exchange of cards, flowers, and chocolates, the origins of Valentine’s Day trace back centuries, weaving a rich tapestry of tradition and sentimentality. Origins of Valentine’s Day: The origins of…

Write Yourself a Love Letter: Journaling Practice
| |

Write Yourself a Love Letter: Journaling Practice

Self-love is a powerful practice that can lead to greater happiness, confidence, and fulfillment in life. One beautiful way to cultivate self-love is through writing love letters to ourselves.  In this blog post, we’ll explore writing prompts and exercises designed to help you reflect on your strengths, accomplishments, and qualities you love about yourself. By…