So here we are! Yet again, we find ourselves at the beginning of a brand new year… It seems as though once September hits, the calendar (and world around us) decides to go into warp speed. Then, we collectively find ourselves (maybe a bit exhausted from all the festivities, and) in utter disbelief of how we’ve arrived at this moment.
And, it is for that very reason that this Tried and Loved series was somehow overlooked. But, I have plans in mind so that won’t happen again in 2023.
In this house, the new year is a fresh start. So, all of our holiday decorations are usually taken down the week following Christmas Day. However, I do have friends and family that like to extend the holiday season until January 6. What about you?
Whatever it is that you choose, I hope that you take the subtle queue from nature, and allow time in your schedule for some rest. Hopefully, that’s what you’re doing right now. So, let’s catch up a bit shall we?
These are the five things that I tried and loved in the last quarter of 2022…
I have found quite a few recipes from Jenn’s blog, Once Upon a Chef. And, they are all staples in my recipe book. Just like this Beef Stew with Carrots and Potatoes, it really hits the spot during the cooler months. I usually get away with turning this recipe into two dinners! However, this recipe takes about 4 hours in total to make. Perfect for a slow weekend or snow day!
The girls and I made this simple slime recipe while we were learning all about outer space (in the last quarter of 2022). But, you can make galaxy slime whenever you’re looking for a super simple craft to do with the kiddos. Just four ingredients, easy peasy!
It was the week before Thanksgiving when I was stumped in the wine aisle at Trader Joe’s. I wanted something good, and I didn’t want to be disappointed. So, when I overheard another customer ordering two cases of this wine I figured I had to give it a shot. And, let me tell you…she was right! Whenever I find myself in Trader Joe’s I always pick up a bottle of Cocobon Estates Roasted Oak Red Blend. And, if you’re a fan of red wine, you should definitely give it a try too!
Setting up the diffusers is one of the first things I do every morning. Along with lighting candles, and playing some very high vibe, instrumental music. This diffuser blend was one committed to memory this last quarter of 2022: 1 drop Bergamot 2 drops Frankincense 1 drop Vetiver
Bergamot is the oil of self acceptance, releasing a soothing and calming aroma. Frankincense is the King of all oils, and has amazing health benefits in and out of your diffuser. Vetiver is one of my all time favorite essential oils, it has a calming and grounding effect. Along with adding this oil to the diffuser, I love to apply it to my pulse points as well.
I’m not entirely sure what has me gravitating to this playlist. Maybe it’s the fact that I am (mostly) Irish? I cannot get enough of Irish Folk – Jigs + Reels on Spotify. Give it a listen. If nothing else, I’ve given you the soundtrack for your St. Patty’s Day breakfast.
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