Thank you for joining me as I share some things I’m loving right now!

Luxurious Hotel Retreat

Okay, so it wasn’t technically a retreat. My sister was hosting a large event when her right-hand woman became ill. So, she asked me to step in and fill in the gaps as best I could. In actuality it was hard work, busy and exhausting. However, I got to road trip with my sister to the event venue, and my parents and nephews were also in attendance. So, it there was a lot of chatting and laughter involved, and it really was a fun experience. And…I was put up in this lovely hotel room and someone else prepared all my meals for three days. What a treat!

Is there a better treat than having someone else serve a fancy breakfast?

Family Time

One of my most important goals for 2017 and 2018 has been to intentionally spend more time with family. This past month has been an exceptionally good time for family fun. In addition to working the event with my family, I’ve also Played Hooky at the OKC Zoo with family, Hosted a fun Family Game Night, and enjoyed a lovely weekend visit with my Aunt Patti and her Granddaughter.

I hosted a big family dinner on Friday night; on Saturday we met for coffee, walked around Bricktown and then went for a horse-drawn carriage ride before going out to dinner. What a fun weekend!

Dinner at the Dining Table

Another goal I had this year was to get back into the habit of nightly dinner at the dining table. My husband tends to work long days with variable arrival times, and I suddenly realized that we’d fallen out of the habit of eating together at the table every night, something we always did as the children were growing up.

When we sit to eat together, sharing a fragrant pot of tea, dinner is leisurely and enjoyable. We chat and connect. I’ve been pleased with the success of this goal. I find it helpful to have a monthly menu plan, a well-stocked pantry, refrigerator and freezer, and meals in the freezer ready to go for hectic evenings. Check out my monthly menu plans. February’s Menu also has a Prep session for Freezer-to-Crockpot meals.

Snuggle Up, Cozy Winter Weather

I know many people don’t love winter, but I’m a fan. I like getting all cozy with a fire, a good book, and a cup of tea. Right now we’re home bound due to an ice storm; everyone is out from work and we’re enjoying curling up indoors.

I’ve spent our ice storm crocheting my Woodland Blanket, re-reading *Little Women, writing, and binge-watching British tv shows on Netflix while drinking *Harney and Sons Scottish Afternoon tea. We’ve also enjoyed our *electric blanket this week! (*Affiliate links. When you purchase through an affiliate link, I receive a percentage without extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work.)

Favorite Authors Series

I’ve also been excited to introduce my Favorite Authors Series! I’ve enjoyed the time spent planning and look forward to sharing more of my favorite authors and books. I hope you’ll read my Jane Austen post if you haven’t done so yet. I’ve greatly enjoyed re-watching Emma and Persuasion so far during our winter storm!

I wonder what you’re especially enjoying this month? I’d love to hear all about it. Join the conversation in the comments section here or on any of my social media posts. 

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Click here to read My Favorite Things | January 2018–Recommendations from My Sick Bed