Favorite Morning Things

Having time alone with God each morning has always been my daily goal. But at this stage in my life, I am enjoying it in a new way...because it is truly 'quiet' and 'alone.' Gone are the days of busy toddlers and preschoolers. Here is the time of homeschooling only an 11 year old son...so mornings are easier. Now I especially enjoy my time with God...coffee...candle...my Ireland journal in which I record one paragraph about the day before, my Bible, and devotional books. Today there fell a gentle rain, so the morning was extra peaceful and cozy. Sigh. A favorite thing. :)

Another favorite morning thing, is a GOOD breakfast that tastes good and keeps me full most of the morning. Oh, and it must be quick...I don't like to slow down my day by cooking in the morning.

Recently I concocted what might be the perfect breakfast for me! It starts with a newly discovered cereal...Aldi's Natural Granola. At just about $1.59 a box, this cereal is just right--not too sweet--and only has NINE ingredients...all natural and recognizable. Next I toss on a handful of the blueberries I froze this summer. Cold and crisp, just what I like! The finishing touch is a handful of pecan halves (or the nut of your choice). I love the crunch, the taste, and the nutrients/protein they add.

Topped with ice cold milk, this bowl of cereal is a party for my mouth. Yum! And it keeps me full. Important too!

So, what are some of your favorite morning things?

Enjoy this simple, sweet day!

Simple and Thrifty

Decorating my home brings me alot of joy and gives me an outlet for my creative energies. Doing so in a thrifty way, also makes it fun and challenging! Antique stores and Goodwill are two of my favorite ways to accomplish that.

Several recent trips to Goodwill and antique stores helped to create this tablescape that has graced and dressed up my dining room table this summer. The fabric cost .99 at Goodwill...a brand new curtain panel in fun colors/plaids. I washed and pressed it, folded it in half, and loved the effect against the oak table.

Next I found a Liberty Blue saucer for 2.00 and a Currier and Ives dish for 2.00 in Ks. City while visiting family. Dishes are my absolute weakness! The silver forks and spoon also came from those antique shops, and the easy detarnishing method of an aluminum pan, baking soda, and water brought them to life.

Another fun and creative idea was to create a gift for my girlfriend from one of her favorite photos of her recent trip to Italy. I printed a 5x7 of the picture, used a front loading frame and scrapbooking techniques, to create this pretty reminder of her wonderful time away. I don't know who had more fun...me creating it or her receiving it!

Being creative can be simple and thrifty. I think a trip to Goodwill is in my plans for today...how about you?!