Making the Most of March

March is the month where winter starts to loosen its grip and the first hints of spring begin to appear. Longer days, fresh air, and a renewed sense of energy make March the perfect time to get out of hibernation mode and try something new. With that in mind, I’ve rounded up some activities to help you enjoy everything March has to offer.

Enjoy some spring produce. Strawberries, artichokes, asparagus, and peas are a few of the fruits and vegetables that are in season during March. Head to your local produce stand or farmers market and pick up some of your favorites.

International Women’s Day is March 8th. Enjoy a book or documentary about women leaders or changemakers. (Bonus points if it was written or directed by a woman) Support a woman owned business.  Let the women who inspire you know just how much you appreciate them with a letter, phone call, or message. March is also Women's History Month, so don't limit your appreciation, support, and learning to just one day!

Embrace play as exercise. Getting your daily exercise doesn’t have mean going to the gym. Reconnect with the things that bring you joy! Try roller skating, jumping rope, a game of kickball, throwing a frisbee, or dancing. Play as exercise can boost your cardio and strength, improve coordination, and reduce stress.

Go for a drive.  Roll down the windows, crank up the volume on your favorite tunes and enjoy the open road.

Pi day (March 14) Observe the day dedicated to the ratio of the circumference of a circle to the diameter of the same circle by enjoying your favorite circular foods. Pie is the obvious choice. But what about Pi-zza? Or some cookies or a cake decorated with the Pi symbol?  See who among your family or friends has the most digits of Pi memorized.  Or try your hand at writing "pi-ku" - a piece with a 3-1-4 syllable structure. 

Go for a spring hike. Head out on your favorite trail or explore a new one.  Look for signs of spring - buds on the trees, the first hints of green, or spring wildflowers - along the way.

Read a book outside.  Enjoy these first warm days of spring by taking your book outside to read while soaking up the fresh air and sunshine.  

Celebrate St. Patrick Day on March 17th. Everyone can be a little Irish one day a year.  Wear your favorite green. Have some Irish stew, Dublin coddle, or Colcannon. Pour your favorite Irish drink - whether that's an Irish coffee, Irish whiskey, or a pint of Guiness.  Listen to some Irish tunes.  Watch an Irish movie or tv show.  I recommend "Rebellion" or "House of Guiness" - both can be found on Netflix.

Hang a birdfeeder. Give the birds that have winter edition in your area a reliable food source and prepare for the ones that will soon be making their spring migration.  Watching birds is a peaceful, relaxing activity and having a bird feeder helps maintain a healthy, diverse bird population - especially in more urban areas.

Stop scrolling.  For one day, turn off the phone or leave it behind. Give yourself a break from the information overload. Try one of the other activities on this list to distract you.

Celebrate the first day of Spring (March 20).  You did it! You made it through another long, cold winter. Wake up early and welcome the sunrise.  Set your intentions or goals for the season.  Or enjoy one of the other activities on this list to welcome in Spring.

Spring cleaning.  It doesn't have to be your whole house. Do one room or clean out your closet or dresser. Spring cleaning reduces indoor allergens, reduces stress, and can improve focus and productivity. 

Plant something. Start some seeds for your summer vegetable garden or sprinkle some wildflower seeds outside. If you're short on outdoor space, try creating a windowsill herb garden or a small container garden. 

Spend some quality time with your furry family member on National Puppy Day (March 23rd). If you don't have a canine companion of your own, visit the dogs at your local shelter or make a donation to help out a dog rescue. Take a walk and pet every puppy you see (always ask first!)

Lighten Up.  Add some pastels to your life. I'm thinking of a new (or better yet - thrifted) top or dress, a ready-for-spring nail polish, or some spring candles.

After months of cold and stillness, March is your cue to step outside a little more, breathe a little deeper, and make space for small joys. Whether you try one thing on this list or weave a few of them into your month, I hope March brings you moments of light, playfulness, and renewal. Winter did its thing—but now it’s time to gently wake up and welcome what’s next.

Sunday Inspiration: March

 

March is here, bringing a fresh vibe and a hint of spring in the air. The days start getting longer, the weather slowly warms, and everything feels like it’s waking up again. It’s a good time to shake off winter, try something new, and enjoy the little signs that brighter days are on the way.

The Best of March

In like a lion - out like a lamb.  That's what they say about March. March is carried in on the cold winds of Winter. And flies out on the warm breezes of Spring.

March celebrated Mardi Gras. It had us changing our clocks for the start of Daylight Savings. She brought us a lunar eclipse during the full Worm Moon. And saw the balance and rebirth that hails the Spring Equinox. 

March is a busy month for birthday celebrations in my family.  I wished my mother, my son in law, my cousin's husband, and my uncle a happy birthday this month.

On the blog we talked about keeping your knees healthy in midlife and beyond. This was inspired by an unexpected trip back to my Orthopedist when I once again experience pain in the knee I had surgery on last fall.  

I put my love of books to work in March and started volunteering at my local library.  It is a dream come true to spend a few hours each week shelving books and reading the shelves.  It's not doing my endless TBR list any favors though as I discover interesting looking books in the process.

In March I read "One Dark Window " by Rachel Gillig, "Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson, and "The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek" by Kim Michelle Richardson. I also started listening to  "Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old" by Brooke Shields. 

At the end of the month I went to west Tennessee with my father to visit the town where his biological father grew up. We visited his grave and those of his parents.  We spent time at the local historical and genealogical library and learned some things about the family.  It was a worthwhile trip.

All in all, March was a good month.  The world may be burning down, but I am still able to find joy in my little part of it.

How was your March?

Favorite March Moments

March felt like a month of extremes.  From the roller coaster ride that the weather put us through (40's one day, 70's the next, then back to 50's with lows in the 20's), to situations and circumstances that had me struggling to find my peace at times.  But I am making every effort to stay focused on the positive.  So let's take a quick look at some of my favorite things from the month of March!

On the first weekend of the month, the Man of the House and I had a little date day.  We started with breakfast/brunch then went to see "Dune". Afterwards,  we went and picked up our new refrigerator.  

My daughter and I took one day and went to Biltmore Estate together.  We walked through the gardens and conservatory, had a nice lunch,  and took my grandson to see the baby farm animals.  Who can resist baby piglets, lambs, and chicks?  Not me!

My Christmas cactus surprised me this month by blooming again. This has never happened before!  I'm not sure what, if anything,  I'm doing differently, ' but apparently the cactus likes it.  Does this make it an Easter cactus?

The cherry blossoms bloomed this month.  The tulips are now opening up.  And there are tons on buds on my azalea and lilac bushes.  I can also see the peonies popping up out of the ground.  All the beautiful flowers are an added bonus of springtime.

I had a day this month when I had my feelings trampled and felt as if my heart had been broken.   That was definitely NOT a favorite moment.  But, it did remind me of the people in my life who love and care for me.  They allowed me to vent and provided a shoulder or two to cry on.  Does it take away all of the hurt? No.  But it certainly helped ease the pain a bit. And those people are absolutely some of my favorites.

What are some of your favorite things from March?

Peace

January and February each brought their own busyness, challenges, and turmoils.  So, when it came time to select a word of the month for March I knew exactly what that word would be.  The thing my spirit was craving at that moment- Peace.

I'm talking about that sense of inner calm,  despite the situations and circumstances surrounding you.  It's not about living a life completely free of troubles or hardship.  It's finding acceptance and tranquility amidst the storms. 

Peace can't be found it in the house you live in, the car you drive, the job title you hold, or the amount in your bank account.  It doesn't come from likes or follows.  

Peace is found in acceptance and mindfulness.  It's knowing who you are, what you believe in, and having a sense of purpose.  It's found in the things and processes that quiet the mind and bring joy to the heart.  

Peace also means a sense of control. Knowing the activities, people, and things that are hurtful to your inner peace and limiting or eliminating them. It is being aware of and capturing negative thoughts rather than dwelling on them.  And cultivating the things, activities, relationships,  and thoughts that nurture your inner peace. 

I find my peace when I sit by the water or take a walk in nature. I find peace in the repetative process of my crochet. In a good book and a warm beverage. It's in the quiet mornings when I spend time in prayer and gratitude. In the calm of holding my baby grandson as he sleeps. In the warm touch of holding my husband's hand. 

What nurtures your sense of peace?

Welcome March

Happy March, y'all!!  This is going to be a good month.  I can feel it in my soul.  The blog has a new name and I have some new ideas be brewing for the next few weeks.  Spring is right around the corner, and Easter is coming in early this year.  

My mother is celebrating a big milestone birthday this month.  It can be challenging to see our parents age, especially if they have health challenges. But I know that I am incredibly blessed to still have mine here with us! Happy early birthday, Mom!

I had high hopes that our renovations on the exterior of the house would finally be completed in February.  They were not.  In fact, there was no new progress.  This month marks a year since we started this process.  And, to be honest, it's starting to get a little tiresome. 

My dachshund, Max, needs to be scheduled for his semiannual exam with the veterinarian this month. And I am extremely nervous about it.  He's due for a rabies vaccine.  The last time he had one, it didn't go well. He had a reaction - vomiting, hives and his little eyes swelled up.  We ended up at the emergency vet for a steroid shot and left with a round of prednisone.  So... Yeh, I am so worried about him having to get another!

My reading list for the month starts off with Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros.  I also need to read Incredibly Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt by the 11th for book club. Other than that, well - who knows. Maybe I'll look through my TBR list for a book set in Ireland in honor of St Patrick's Day.

I am crocheting a new cardigan for myself and looking at a couple of more projects to start when this is done. I started playing with my embroidery machine in February and plan to create a few more items in March.

I had mixed results for my February goals.  I did get the bedroom closet cleaned out and reorganized, but I didn't get to the closet in the craft room at all. That one will have to wait for another month.  I attended my first book club and enjoyed it very much. I did not exercise three times a week.  In fact, I exercised less than I did in January.  I'm not proud of that, but it is what it is.

My goals for March:

• Purge and reorganize purses
• Finish crocheting  current project
• Walk at least 3 days per week

What are your plans for March?

March 2023

 February was a whirlwind of a month, and March is also shaping up to be a good - but busy - month. 

During February, the Man of the House was gone most of a week for work, but I was able to visit with my younger sister during that time. We spent a lovely day at the Biltmore Estate where we enjoyed a delicious lunch and the DaVinci Experience exhibit.  The husband and I celebrated a low key - but very nice - Valentine's Day. And we put plans into motion to begin some major - and much needed - renovations to the exterior of our house. 

The best day of February was obviously the day our second grandson entered the world!  Our daughter's family was over the night before to have dinner and leave our older grandson with us, since they were scheduled to be at the hospital at 5am the next morning for a scheduled induction.  I awoke at 4:30am to a text from our son in law that she had gone into labor and Henry had already been born!  

I did not manage to complete my monthly reading list during February. So The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood will be added to the TBR list in an upcoming month.  My list for March is: The Invisible Library by Genevieve Cogman, The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O'Farrell, and A Duty to the Dead by Charles Todd.  

The work we plan to do on the outside of our home should be progressing this month, starting with replacing the roof.  There will then be a pause in the work while we wait for the new windows and patio doors to arrive since those will need to be installed before they start work on the new siding and gutters.  It's a lot of work, but I am so excited about what the end result will look like!

Inside, I am still slowly chipping away at getting my home office cleaned and reorganized.  I've reached this awkward place in the process where I'm not really sure where to go from here. I go in, look around, shuffle a few things, then get discouraged and overwhelmed.  I think I have reached a tipping point where it's gone past purging and minor organizing and it's time to make some major decisions and changes. 

Yesterday was my mom's birthday.  And next weekend our son in law celebrates his birthday. 

Lots of appointments are scheduled for this month.  Max has his semiannual exam and vaccinations.  I'm scheduled for a dental cleaning, as well as my annual physical. Oh... And my car is scheduled for its suggested maintenance.

Like I said... a busy month!

My goals for March are:

• Clean out the drawers in my bathroom
• Journal everyday
• Clear the work table and desk in home office
• Move futon out of home office
• Walk stairs every day for a little exercise

What are your plans for March?

  

Currently... April 2022

I had hoped that March would be calmer, but it was another doozy of a month!  

I felt like I spent most of the month in and out of medical offices.   I had a dental cleaning and an attempted root canal.  It was also the month for my regular labs and well check with my primary doctor, as well as my mammogram.  It was certainly a busy month, medically speaking.

The weather in March was a roller coaster ride.  We've had a little bit of everything.  Warm, sunny days.  Cold, wintery weather.  And some spring storms. Typical early Spring in western North Carolina. You never know what to expect. Even April can be iffy in some years.  

The grandkid has time off from school the week before Easter. That means I will get to spend some extra time with him that week.  I feel as if we have hardly seen each other in the past few months, so I am very much looking forward to this time together!

Working On: I've been working on some cleaning, purging, and reorganizing things around the house. Last month it was the master bathroom. This month I'm going to work on my closet and clothes. 

I am also having to work on some changes to the Etsy shop.  Unfortunately, I am going to have to make some price increases. I am very nervous about this.  I have been putting it off for a while, but with the increasing prices of supplies and shipping, I can't avoid it any longer.

Celebrating:  Let's see... There's Easter, of course.  And my "baby" sister's birthday is in April.

Wanting/Needing: I need some new sandals for summer.  Something cute, but also comfortable and not too flimsy. Or too chunky.  I would love something with a little bit of a wedge heel,  but nothing that I'm risking an ankle when I walk around in them.  And not costing an arm and a leg is a must.

Eating: I have been trying to eat more fish.  Before I would cook fish maaaybe once a week.  Sometimes.  I am now aiming for twice a week. Although often I am still only getting it in once a week.  But I decided that falling short of my goal and getting it once a week is better than none. I am also trying to eat more plant-based meals.  And more whole grains and leafy greens.

Loving: My coffee routine.  I have become absolutely spoiled when it comes to my morning coffee.  Now that I have a selection of sugar-free syrup flavors and my milk frother, I can whip up some tasty treats in the morning instead of the same ol' coffee with half and half.  It's delicious and I look forward to each almost every morning!

April Goals:

• Purge and reorganize my closet
• Read 3 books
• Update Etsy shop with new prices
• Walk stairs every day (April 3-9: 3 flights x 2, April 10-16: 4 flights x 2, April 17-23: 4 flights x 2, April 24-30: 5 flights x2)
• Reorganize cotton yarns

What are your plans for April?

What I'm Reading: "March"

As someone who loved Little Women and spent a short time in her early life wishing she could be Jo March, even for just one day - I was excited to finally read March by Geraldine Brooks. (Yes, I know it  won the Pulitzer Prize way back in 2006, but if you could see my TBR list, you would understand why it took me so long to get around to this)

March follows the father of the "Little Women" during the time he is absent from the original classic tale. It brings to life the previously untold story of his service as a chaplain in the Union army, as well as the back story of how he and Marmee met and fell in love. 

I feel that it's an interesting story. Good, but not great. It took me a while to get into the story as well as the characters. Papa March and Marmee are not exactly the kindly, understanding, loving characters we know from Little Women.  Mr. March is a bit self-centered for my taste.  But that very flaw is a big part of what drives his actions and the plot. My feelings about this book swung wildly from frustration to being completely enthralled.

March is also not an easy read.  Ms. Brooks doesn't paint a sugar-coated picture about the horrors of war, battlefield hospitals, or slavery. If you are sensitive to violence or brutality, you may want to give it a pass.

If you are looking for another Little Women, this isn't it.  If you are looking for a well-written alternate story to that childhood classic - pick up a copy of March.

⭐⭐⭐

Currently... March 2022

February was a rough month. Between plumbing problems, my dad having another episode of angina and requiring another heart cath, the man's broken foot, and myself and the male offspring having Covid - I was more than happy to put that month behind me! A new month means a clean slate. A fresh start.

Happily looking forward to March!

Working On:  After more than a week of lying around recuperating from Covid-19, I've slowly been getting back to my normal routines. That includes getting back to some healthier eating.  When I was sick, there was a lot of comfort eating going on. And convenience foods. Not always the most nutritious options. I've been looking for new healthy recipes and meal plans. 

Celebrating: This month brings my mother's birthday. Our son-in-law also has a birthday in March.

Wanting/Needing: I need to find some type of exercise that I actually enjoy.  Or the motivation to do some sort of exercise despite hating it.  I wish I could be one of those people who just love jogging or yoga or whatever. But I'm just not

Eating: As well as the above-mentioned comfort food, I was also enjoying lots of sweets.  Cookies, jelly beans, and sugary cereal.  Now that I'm getting back on track, I am focusing on lean proteins and lots of fruits and veggies. 

Loving: We've been having some lovely spring-like days in the last couple of weeks.  It has been nice to turn off the heat, open the windows and let in some fresh air.  The dogs are loving being able to go hang out on the back porch in the sunshine. 

March Goals:

• Mail Mom's birthday present
• Clean out and re-organize bathroom cabinet
• Walk stairs every day (March 1-5: 3 flights, March 6-12: 4 flights, March 13-19: 5 flights, March 20-26: 6 flights)
• Read at least 3 books
• Create Thankful Thursday post templates for the 2nd quarter
• Continue working on winding and organizing yarn

What is March looking like in your life?

Currently... March 2021

This time last year life as we know it began to drastically change.  Since then, it feels as if the world has gone crazy in a different way with almost every week that passes.  I don't know about you, but for me, it has been long enough that the isolation life has begun to feel normal in some ways and the idea of going out shopping or to dinner in a restaurant feels very foreign and out of my comfort zone.  Hopefully, I will have to get used to that sort of thing once again soon.

My grandson goes back to full-time in-person learning next week.  That will be an adjustment as I have gotten used to having him here a few days a week.  I'm going to miss not seeing that sweet face in the mornings asking for a snack (aka: second breakfast). 

On the other hand, I look forward to sleeping in a little later (if the dogs will allow it) and having some quiet time with my coffee. 

My goals for February were pretty much a flop.  I just couldn't seem to find my motivation to focus and accomplish anything.  The Man of the House and I did finish our sugar detox - just in time for Valentine's day, which involved lots of cheesecake.  So...  yeh.  I washed my face almost every night, but as far as a full bedtime routine - not so much.  And the whole "stay offline one day per week" thing never materialized at all.  March has to go better. Right?

Working On:  Getting my act together.  And by that, I mean staying focused on the task I am working on at the moment as well as getting motivated to begin and complete projects and challenges.  As I mentioned before, that's something I struggled with this last month.  If I am going to accomplish anything this year - that has to change,

Celebrating: My mother's birthday is Friday.  Happy Birthday, Mom!

Loving:  The man and I are big fans of British television.  Especially panel shows. Seriously, if you've never seen an episode of Taskmaster with Greg Davies and Alex Horne - you are missing out! We decided to get a streaming app for our Amazon Firestick that is allowing us to explore new BBC shows previously unknown to us.

Wanting/Needing:  A little self-motivation would be nice.  (See a theme here?) A little extra energy would be nice also.  There are many things I want or need to be doing.  I just have to get my rear in gear and actually do them. 

Reading: I am nearing the end of In The Woods by Tana French.  So far it is a pretty good thriller. I'm waiting until I see how this ends before I decide whether I will read the next book in the series.  I plan to read a book from my yearly list this month (either Tess of the D'Ubervilles or The Wind in the Willows) as well as You'll Never Believe What Happened to Lacey by Amber Ruffin and Lacey Lamar.  

The grandkid and I are reading Half Magic together.  And I guess that routine will become a thing of the past when he returns to school next week.  At least until summer break begins. 

I'm also hoping to finish I Thought It Was Just Me this month.  I had to return it before I completed it and finally was able to check it out again.  The goal is to finish it before it has to go back yet again.   

Dreaming About: 

Challenges for March:

• Reach next weight loss goal
• Stick to a nail care routine to grow and strengthen my nails
• Clean out and reorganize my home office

What will your March look like this year?

Currently... March 2020

March is an unpredictable month.  Sometimes it can be warm and spring-like. Other times it can be cold and wintery.  In 1993, we had a blizzard in the middle of March that most people who experienced it will never forget!  Hopefully, that won't happen again. Probably not.  But whatever March brings, I feel ready for it!

Reading:  The Ones Who Save Us by Jenna Blum.  In the next couple of weeks, I will also be reading Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson and The Last Days of Rabbit Hayes by Anna McPartlin.  I was finally able to check out 168 Hours (which I finished yesterday) and The Fringe Hours (which I'll hopefully be completing this week) after having to return them for other holds.  It's nice to be able to get those done and behind me.

Working On:  Planning ahead and scheduling social media posts and promos for my Etsy shop.  I am tired of scrambling to figure out what I want to post most days, and this is helping me get ahead of the game.  The social media planning calendar my sister gave me for Christmas is a big help with this!

Loving: Going on more walks with Max.  Now that he's a little bigger and has received his vaccines, we're getting out for more walks when the weather is nice -  including walking at the park.  It's good for both of us to get a little exercise and fresh air!

Celebrating:  March brings birthdays for my mother and our son in law.   I'm also celebrating that my amazing niece was accepted into the grad program she wanted!

Wanting/Needing:  Some inspiration for healthy, WW friendly meals.  I've gotten a little bored with the same old sameness and that makes it more challenging to stick with the program.

Dreaming About:  Future road trips with the Man of the House.  We spent a weekend in Memphis earlier this month and decided that we want to start taking more long weekend trips together.

March Goals:

1. Lose 5 pounds
2. Take a long walk with Max at least 2 days per week 
3. Drink 75 ounces of water per day
4. Schedule April social media posts for Etsy Shop
5. Follow up with local bath and body shop owner re: wholesale partnership
6. Create samples to provide per #5
7. Schedule April Thankful posts
8. Create April Sunday posts

Currently... March 2019

We all know that February is the shortest month of the year.  And, it certainly did feel like it this time around!  It was a busy month, which always make the time fly.  Between confirming the venue for our daughter's wedding and reception, wedding dress shopping, celebrating Valentine's day, and keeping up with all the usual day to day of work, family, etc - we have barely had time to slow down for even a moment.

Reading:  This month I will be reading the 2nd of my never-before-read classics from this list.  My first (as you may remember) was Anna Karenina.  The 2nd book I have selected is Fahrenheit 451.  Which I will be starting just as soon as I finish See What I Have Done by Sarah Schmidt.

Celebrating:  My mother celebrates her 70th birthday next week!  Yeh, I said it out loud. Or rather, I typed it.  Sorry, Mom - not sorry.  Happy Birthday!

Our future son-in-law also has a birthday this month.

Working On:  Some pre-Spring cleaning, purging, and organizing.  So far, I have cleaned out and re-organized the hall/guest bathroom, the linen/cleaning closet, the pantry, and the refrigerator/freezer.  This week I have been focused on the living room and next week I'm on to the master bath. 

Enjoying:  Wedding planning with my daughter!  We went shopping last weekend for her dress.  I can't give away any details, but I  can say that she is going to be a gorgeous bride.  The dress she chose is perfection!

Anticipating:  I was going to say something about the coming of spring with warm weather and blooming flowers.  But... honestly, I'm anticipating all the Easter candy being stocked in the stores. I have a teeny little addiction to jelly beans.  I don't eat them year 'round - but this is the time of year I allow myself to indulge that 

Needing:  To make some couple time with the Man of the House a priority.  We've both been so busy lately that we haven't had much opportunity for date nights.

Wanting:  To figure out what I will do for Lent this year.  I don't want to do something mundane or empty just to be doing something.  I want to give something up - or work at developing a new habit with will have real impact on my life and help me to grow closer to God. 

Making:  Some cute little bunny baskets for my Etsy shop.  They should be listed by sometime next week.  

Feeling:  A little waterlogged.  We have had so much rain down here in our part of North Carolina.  I'm hoping that as we move into Spring later this month the weather will dry up a little and give us a chance to get out of doors a little more often. 

Favorite Things:

1. Egg salad
2. Simply Clean by Becky Rapinchuk  (also her blog Clean Mama)
3. Spring flowers in bloom

Currently... March 2018

True to the old expression, March certainly has come in like a lion!  After a record warm February, the arrival of March saw the temperatures drop 20 degrees or more and a couple of days of rain, followed by 2 days of extremely high winds.  Will she go out like a lamb?  We'll have to wait and see!

Reading: My fiction read is currently an advance read copy of Love and Ruin by Paula McLain thanks to NetGalley.  I'm also finishing up I am Loved by Wendy Blight for my personal Bible study times.

Enjoying:  My afternoon cup of tea each day.  Usually a nice Oolong or occasionally some Constant Comment.  It's been a lovely habit to try to start. One I plan to continue.  "Afternoon tea"...  Makes me feel quite British.  (not really) 

Working On:  A little Spring cleaning.  Nothing like a huge top-to-bottom undertaking, just some of those chores that often get overlooked.  Things like giving the baseboards a good washing, cleaning some windows, cleaning out the chest freezer, etc.

Anticipating:  The weather finally being warm and dry enough to get back into our weekend hikes. Hopefully this happens sooner rather than later!

Also, my yearly physical this week.  I always anticipate this with a slight sense of dread.  Especially this year, since I have let my healthy habits slide and put on a few more pounds.  I find myself looking for reasons to reschedule the appointment so that I can put it off a little longer.

Feeling:  Hmmm...  Tired.  Lazy.  Fat.  I think winter has finally gotten too long for me and it's time for spring to arrive and encourage me out of hibernation so I can wake up and get motivated.


How are things currently in your life?



With Love,

Sunday Inspiration: March

A Spirit of Gratitude: March 2017

 March brings its own reasons for gratitude.  Warmer weather (for some of us).  The first day of Spring.  The first flowers blooming. It's all good! 

I Am Thankful For:

My mom's birthday

The grand kid "playing guitar" for me

A trip to the zoo

A movie and dinner date with my 2 favorite guys (aka: the Man of the House and the Male Offspring)

Spring time Oreos with bees on them!

Not eating any of those Spring time Oreos
The grand kid making pizzas

Losing 7 pounds!

Currently... March 2017

Normally, about this time of year I would write something about looking forward to the start of Spring and warmer weather.  But let's be honest... around here it's felt like March (or maybe April) since January!  For all of you who have actually experienced a winter this year - I hope you are looking forward to warmer weather and Spring days.

March is looking rather quiet right now.  I'm very much ok with that considering how quickly the first two months of the year flew past.  It will be nice to pause and take a few deep breaths.  Of course, one never knows what might pop up out of the blue!

Before that has a chance to happen, let's take a quick peek at what life looks like right now.

READING:  "Still Life" by Louise Penny.  Some time back, a dear friend sent met several books in this series.  Which have been sitting on my nightstand for months.  Time for that stack to move, so I am placing them high on my To Be Read list for this year.

EATING:  As of yesterday - I am reducing/eliminating refined sugar.  So far, I am struggling.  Sugar has a serious hold on me.  It's going to be tough to break this.

WORKING ON:  A lot of Spring and Easter items for my Etsy shop

ENJOYING:  Quiet time in the afternoons.  Each day, I am trying to be intentional about making a block of time when I turn all my electronics off and I take a little while for myself to sip a cup of tea and read or crochet. 

ANTICIPATING:  Um... good question.  I can't think of any specific thing I'm  looking forward to at the moment.  Just a general sense of looking forward to making plans for the Spring and Summer.

FEELING:  Like I really, really, really want a cupcake. Or a donut.  (Did I mention that I'm off sugar?)

What are you up to Currently?  Leave a comment and let me know!

March-ing Along

Welcome to March, everyone!  I know those of you who dislike the winter are celebrating today and anticipating Spring.  However, as much as I am looking forward to the blooming of daffodils and forsythia, and the milder days ahead; I do so cautiously.  The biggest blizzard in memory was 23 years ago this month.  I know not to trust Spring in these mountains and to hang onto the winter wardrobe until May rolls in.

This morning I was scrolling through pages of Google images, just looking for a March picture...  when I came across THIS:

Now, I have been trying to schedule some time into my week to sit down and brainstorm ideas for blog posts.  If you write, you know what a chore that can be!  And while I have come up with a few (very few) fresh ideas,  I was lacking.  

As I read through the above list of prompts, many of them lit a little creative spark with me.  A few made me cringe or groan a little, but I can just skip those.  

Sadly, it appears the original source of this particular challenge closed up shop sometime between 2013 when it was written and now.  But, Tiffany - where ever you are now - THANKS for the inspiration!

And as for the rest of you - keep watching for my responses to the prompts.  Or even better - follow along on your own blog!!

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