Today, On February 2nd, the half way point of winter, I'm linking up with Modern Mrs. Darcy to talk about things that are making winter less dreary and more enjoyable and life giving!
Winter isn't super harsh here in sunny Texas (although I have broken out my ski socks and my gloves many times this year!), but the leaves are still off the trees, some days the sky is still dreary, and it simply isn't the same as the airy days of spring, the lavish days of summer, or the brisk fall skies. Here are some of the things that have characterized the best moments of my winter thus far:
The Morning Sun
This is the way that the sun comes in my living room in the mornings - I want to wake up to cherish its cheery light with a cup of tea every single morning.
TV Shows
There's something lovely about coming home after a long day's work, cooking a warm dinner, and settling in front of the tv for an hour's show before I adjust to reading or being productive around the house. I'm still loving Madam Secretary in all of its foreign policy glory! I'm also thoroughly enjoying PBS' new Victoria and am finally watching season five of Call the Midwife!
Home Projects
As I wrapped up December, and entered January, I looked around my home and realized there was lots that needed to be done! Somehow I lost track of my filing during the holidays so I need to tackle that. I also enjoy holiday issues of magazines and catalogs. They are always thicker issues with more recipes, tablescapes, and decorating ideas. This year, however, I didn't read a single one!
This is the stack of magazines that I've had to catch up on! I've been leaving them open on side tables and night stands as I slowly work my way through them in spare moments here and there.
I'm also prepping for Valentine's day! Making Valentine's cards is one of my surest ways to kill the winter doldrums. What weariness can't be washed away in a sea of pinks and reds?! Here's my Valentine's Becca Bag (cue singing the Becca bag song to the tune of the Barney bag song) filled with all the supplies for making cards!
Worship Music
I've been keeping favorites like Ellie Holcomb, The Rend Collective, Fernando Ortega, and All Sons and Daughters on repeat this year. More than ever before, I have yearned for cheerful, worshipful songs to fill the silences of this winter.
Fires!
My Eagle Scout hubby sure does know how to build a good blaze!
Lots and Lots of Soup
I've taken a break from soups this week, but I have enjoyed making big pots of soup and eating the left overs for days. Here are a few of my favorites:
Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup from Two Peas & Their Pod
Slow Cooker Cajun Stew from Martha Stewart
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup from Potentially Lovely
Time with Family & Friends
I've cherished so many sweet moments with those I love this winter. The phone calls, conversations, and cups of tea I've shared have truly been the highlight of the entire seasons!
Winter Sunsets
I don't remember the winter sunsets ever being as vast and as beautiful as they have been this year. Every single one is different and intriguingly gorgeous, reminding me of longer sunny days to come!
This Scripture Verse:
“Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.”
What wonders are keeping you trudging this winter? I'd love to hear about them!