I saw a drawing on social media the other day that I felt was quite apt. It showed several people standing together with a long pole in their hands. They were poking a door that said “2022” with the far end of the pole. The idea was that these people were quite cautious about starting next year and weren’t certain that they wanted to touch it … [Read more...] about 2021 Year in Review
Archives for 2021
Have Yourself a Mindful Little Christmas
I often get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of Christmas that I miss out on opportunities to truly savor the things I love about the season. This is unfortunate because there are so many amazing things—people, treats, decorations, activities, etc.—to enjoy. This year, I’m being intentional about slowing down and enjoying the … [Read more...] about Have Yourself a Mindful Little Christmas
Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies
This past week, my girls and I baked our first Christmas cookies of the season. After seeing whoopie pies in a book we read before Thanksgiving, my girls were eager to try some. These did not disappoint! If you have time to make these delightful cookies, then add them to your baking list. Those eating your cookies will be delighted by … [Read more...] about Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies
All the Merry for Less Moolah: How to Save Money on Christmas
According to the National Retail Federation, the average American spends about $1,000 on Christmas each year (source). Gifts, treats, decorations, and travel are great, but many of us don’t have a grand sitting around with which to pay for them. Thankfully, the most wonderful time of the year doesn’t have to also be the priciest time of … [Read more...] about All the Merry for Less Moolah: How to Save Money on Christmas
December 2021 Dinner Menu
The Christmas season is my favorite time of the year. I am thrilled to be listening to Christmas music, baking cookies, wrapping gifts, sharing the Jesse Tree tradition with my family, drinking peppermint hot chocolate, etc. As happened last month, I’m confident this month’s menu will undergo some changes as we near the end of the … [Read more...] about December 2021 Dinner Menu
10 Benefits of Engaging in Family Traditions
Yesterday, my daughters completed a gratitude activity that we complete each year before Thanksgiving. In the coming days, they will help me prepare traditional Thanksgiving foods. Then, I’ll recount stories of past Christmases as we hang ornaments on the Christmas tree. We’ll place our handprint tree skirt under the tree after adding this … [Read more...] about 10 Benefits of Engaging in Family Traditions
Slow Cooker Cranberry BBQ Pulled Pork
I came across this recipe some time ago. I thought it sounded delicious, but I wanted to wait until fall to give it a try. I finally prepared it last month, and it was fantastic! Ingredients (Adapted from this recipe.) 1 boneless pork shoulder roast (4 to 6 pounds) 2/3 cup apple juice, divided 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided 1 … [Read more...] about Slow Cooker Cranberry BBQ Pulled Pork
November 2021 Dinner Menu
Our weather has been absolutely gorgeous these last few days! It’s such a nice way to begin November. Like most of you, we’ll be busy this month engaging in gratitude activities, having family visit, and enjoying yummy foods as we feast together on Thanksgiving. I imagine our menu will undergo some changes as we get closer to the end of … [Read more...] about November 2021 Dinner Menu
