Simple Joys – Let’s Catch Up

Simple Joys

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Since we got home we have enjoyed the simple joys of hot clean water, sleeping in our own beds, cooking, preparing flower beds for spring, and mostly visiting with our families. Biological and Christian.

Malawi

Having spent two months in Malawi (September 12 – November 8) it is good to sleep in our own beds. As we left the airport, we headed to West Virginia to visit my mother-in-law and two sisters in laws. Happily reunited and finding them in good health. We enjoyed a short visit with them. Then we made it home on the second night, where we slept 10 hours! We continued this trend for several days.

Three of our sons came and helped us with some unfinished projects. They helped us finish the gutter and prepare for winter in our little house.  I was able to get a couple of flower boxes ready to plant for spring.  My new focus is on studying cut flowers. Herbs have been a favorite of mine for many years.

Christmas Jam and Saurkraut

One of my hobbies is learning new things. Keeping the old crafts alive. My husband made a batch of saurkraut. I’ve still yet to make my first batch. Christmas Jam has been on my list since last year, and I am glad I was able to finally make some. Here is the recipe I used. https://www.theseasonedmom.com/christmas-jam/ 

On Thanksgiving, we gathered at my mom’s house. This has been our tradition for many years. My sister and I spent Wednesday with Mom and helped get prepared.

We are not all able to be together every year, because we live in 5 different states, but there’s always a crowd, good food, and usually a game or two.  This year, 24 of our family gathered. Their younger cousins enjoyed running around and playing, and sneaking marshmallows.

My mother is an amazing quilter and has been making each grandchild a quilt. This year, James received his quilt. The Underground Railroad. She took his love for history and made his quilt historical. It is beautiful and he was thrilled.

Turkey Bone Broth

I brought home the turkey bones. I know I am selfish 🙂 I made 3 quarts of bone broth. Yummy. To make the broth, I throw the bones in my crock pot or Instant Pot. Cover them with water with a couple of tablespoons of vinegar, some celery leaves, a bit of onion, and a carrot, etc., and cook them on low for 24 hours. The Instant Pot, I usually cook them for 3-4 hours until the bones are soft.

We kicked off Christmas and celebrated one of our grandsons’ 4 birthday. Graham Cracker houses have been part of our Christmas for a long time. It’s fun to see the second generation enjoying this tradition.

Today we have beautiful snow. We are staying home.

Now we are back to work on our record keeping and reporting as we finish up this year. How did December get here so fast?

Thanks for reading along. Hug your family and don’t forget to enjoy the little things, the simple joys of living.