Thursday, April 21, 2022
A quick update.
God bless,
Doll
Motivation Monday
We’re two weeks away from celebrating Easter; six weeks until Mother’s Day and so on.
One of the problems, as I see it, is that we jump from holiday to holiday; from special moments to special celebrations. We’re often looking for that next big family dinner or gathering.
But, what about the days in between. We have many “normal” days. We rise, work or do chores, plan meals, eat, etc. Perhaps what is needed is that small celebration each and every day.
Living frugally as Nick and I do, these daily moments come from creativity. Travelling to visit with family on the spur of the moment, buying flowers for a friend, going for walks to witness spring in action. Each time we follow our hearts, our intentions to find a small light in the day, we lift each other up. Our steps become light, the conversation turns to joy.
These small things may only last a moment or two but add value to each day.
The question that came across my desk a few years ago was, “When did you last dance? When did you last sing?” I’ll add my own – When did I last engage in something creative, using my imagination? When did I last write in my journal?
How about you? When did you last…..? Let’s motivate ourselves to find some joy today.
Til again,
Doll
picture found on Pintrest
Slow days
Slow knitting. I have been reminded lately that it’s ok to slow down.
My life is generally pretty quiet but within that peaceful life is a feeling of unrest. Something I can’t quite put my finger on keeps my head and heart spinning. ( not in the way I like to spin🧶.
I’m working on a double knit hot pad. For me, this is very slow knitting. I’m changing colours and going between knit and purl stitches. Plain knitting, especially in the round, is much quicker for me.
So, I slow down. I knit or purl each stitch with thought and intention. The day moves slowly as does my knitting.
Is there something you do regularly that you’ve intentionally slowed down to enjoy?
Till again,
Doll
In the kitchen with Doll, Friday
Ok, so I’m really enjoying my dive into Sour Dough baking.
Each loaf is getting better and better and tastes really great. We’ve enjoyed the bread with butter, peanut butter, sunflower butter, whipped cream cheese, Nutella, and jam. Well, not all at the same time but definitely some great combinations.
For Lent I will be taking the bread time to move into prayer and mediation and the cost of the bread to our Missions fund. However, I could squeeze in a loaf or two to share with family, friends, or neighbours. Place your order early. I bake twice a week currently.
How many more days till spring? Well, who’s counting besides me.
Happy baking all.
Till again,
Doll
And then there were 20
No, I’m not speaking about rabbits, although that could have been the case a couple of years ago.
During my journal time yesterday I outlined fully what the steps are in my morning routine; my start my day (SMD). I wrote these in order and was surprised that I had 20 steps, 20 things that were on auto pilot.
I won’t list them here since some things are very personal and unique to me and in our current situation.
Here’s the list
- SMD – morning ablutions
- Coffee and prep for Nick’s breakfast ( I usually fast)
- Make bed and start laundry
- Journal, plan, pray
- Kitchen tidy and daily food prep
- Catch up on favourite YouTubes OR go to work/church
Seems straightforward. What would I add? A morning walk while meditating. Also include some lemon water before coffee.
Do you have a morning routine? If so does it need some tweaking?
Let me know your thoughts.
Till again,
Doll
It’s got a name!
I finally got around to naming my sour dough starter.
Blessing2 is white flour only.
I’ve been tweaking recipes and techniques since last fall and have finally created a product I like. Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Patience. I cannot rush a good bread. Time is needed to bulk ferment and to rest.
- A baneton basket helps
- Scoring is important
- My best result comes from placing the dough in a cold oven and baking at 450F for 1 hour, covered
- Patience again. I need to let the bread 🍞 cool before slicing
- Some days the starter needs some love to boost its strength
There are lots of YouTube videos that explain recipes in detail. The process is not difficult as long as you have patience.
Here’s to great baking.
Till again,
Doll
Zero Waste Wednesday
This is day 10 of 90
How do you cut down on waste in your daily life?
Tweak your week! 