SMALL PLEASURES FOR THE NEW YEAR

Cravings for comfort, coziness and contentment are shared
by many of us these days.

We have high hopes for a better year than last,
so why not do our best to create those feelings 
within our homes.
Simplicity and serenity go hand-in-hand to create an
atmosphere of cozy comfort!
These are small ways I have found to bring joy,
along with happiness to these early January days!

After years of getting up very early in the morning and rushing
off to work, it is indeed a pleasure to no longer rush into the morning
and take the time to savor a beautiful breakfast....
today was hot buttery buttermilk waffles topped with fresh berries!
A delight to the senses......

I just love this little Ball jar which I transformed
into a bit of winter look with just a few items I
had left over from Christmas......

A bit of artificial snow, a sprig of evergreen, a tiny tree and
some gingham ribbon....yes, I simply love it!

I adore these little glass mugs..and find them perfect
for a hot wintery beverage in the afternoons....
I bought these in Maine at The Christmas Tree Shop
and remembered we sipped a winter tea when it
was a bitterly cold snow day......

I chose this delightful Celestial Herbal Tea which
sounded perfect for January....Cranberry Vanilla...divine!!!

Now isn't this just beautiful....
tea in the afternoon can nurture yourself and is
considered a form of self-care.

You know by now, that I am a huge lover of
pretty paper napkins....I love bringing snowmen
in some form or fashion into winter days...
these are from Mackenzie-Childs and I just thought
they were vibrant and sweet!

After the Christmas décor has been carefully packed and put away,
it's time for a good deep cleaning and I like using Mrs. Meyer's
products.....this is my favorite winter scent.....

There is probably nothing more heartwarming on
a cold January day, than to plan on making 
a homemade soup for lunch....today,
it was my version of Broccoli Cheese Soup for two...
topped with a few green onions and extra cheddar!

I also love calendars that feature recipes and gardening tips...
this is a new Gooseberry Patch calender I received for Christmas
and each month will feature an easy recipe which has been
proven to be tried and true.....
January shared this delicious recipe for BBQ Sloppy Joe's....
perfect for a Sunday night dinner!

AFTER CHRISTMAS SALES......

I purchased this beautiful set of hand soaps
which I plan on using for the bathrooms
during the holiday season of 2021!

Working on puzzles is a terrific winter activity
which will help keep your mind sharp and your hands busy!
The darling is a puzzle master and I am a bit challenged
at doing a complete puzzle on my own!
This sweet little winter scene just spoke to me...
and so, THIS is my next at home activity!

NOTEWORTHY....The events that have unfolded this week
in Washington have been extremely upsetting and just plain horrifying.
It is nothing I have seen in my lifetime....
Prayers are needed for our nation.
Stay safe, stay well and strive to be happy and kind.