Outside My Window . . . It’s been stormy, windy, rainy, and cold for the past week or so. While we desperately need the moisture, it doesn’t feel like we’ve received enough rain to make a real impact on the drought. The canal near my house is full for now, but that may not last if we don’t get more consistent rainfall. And right now, it's snowing!
Everything is greening up—the trees are getting their leaves, fruit trees are in bloom, and some people are already planting their gardens. I’ll probably wait until mid-May, maybe even the end of May, before I start planting anything. Especially with cold temps... And snow!
On My Playlist . . . It’s been a melancholy and reflective month, and the song “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac is one of my favorites. It always reminds me of how I’ve been feeling lately. Stevie Nicks sings it so beautifully—it captures that feeling in a way that’s hard to put into words.
I'm Thinking and Pondering . . .Two weeks ago, my brother-in-law passed away very suddenly. My sister is devastated—he was her whole world. I haven’t been especially close with my family, so I sometimes struggle to know how to show up. I understand that she is grieving deeply, wishing he were still here. It’s never easy to know how to help someone heal, but I will be there in whatever way her family needs, helping her keep putting one foot in front of the other. I find comfort in the phrase, “Keep living until you feel alive again,” even knowing it may be a long time before she does.
This is a photo of my siblings. It's the only one I have of the four of us. My sister is the one I have my arms around. Bless her heart, she could barely stand for this photo :0(
Right Now I'm . . . Well, I just got home a while ago after having my nails done. It was way overdo and it feels good to feel put together again. I had, Staci do something fun and kind of whimsical, which is unusual for me, but I love how they turned out!
I’m also just trying to remember everything that’s happened over the last month. When my brother-in-law passed away, I was in the middle of painting the inside of my house. Thank goodness for my daughters—they were such a big help, and I don’t think I could have finished without them. I didn’t even take pictures of the whole project. I took down so many pictures, shelves, and knickknacks that I still need to sort through and figure out what to do with.
Something Wonderful . . . On the19th it's our 52nd wedding anniversary! It's hard to believe that we have been married for that long. And, with each passing year, I love Bob more and more. We usually go somewhere for a week or so, but this year, because of the gas prices, we decided to stay home. We'll go out to dinner, eat way too much and stay home the next day to recover. When you get old and have been married this long, just being together is fun!
It was my granddaughter’s birthday at the end of March. Emily is such a bright light in the world—she’s sassy, funny, kind, and beautiful, and warms this grandma's heart every time I get to see her! And to top it off, she’s even a wonderful cook. Right now, she’s taking a break from college. She’s still living there, but working hard and also enjoying time with her roommates and having some fun along the way.
When Emily was in highschool, she started making a lap quilt. She didn't end up finishing it before she left for college. Her mom took it to one of her friends and she finished and quilted it for her for her birthday! It turned out very pretty!
In The Kitchen... I just put some pinto beans, a chopped onion, a few garlic cloves and a ham bone from Easter into my Instant Pot, so I guess we’re having ham and beans for dinner. This is really the only way I make them. Pressure cooking brings out so much flavor from the ham bone, and the beans turn out perfectly every time. I set it for an hour today only because the ham bone was frozen—usually I cook them for about 45 minutes. If they aren’t quite done after that, I’ll add another 10 minutes. Yum!
I also took my sourdough starter out of the fridge, revived it, and baked a loaf of bread that will be perfect alongside the beans. This is a photo with white beans, but I really love them made with pinto beans.
Just Sayin'...
"We keep moving forward, opening doors, and doing new things because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths."
Happy Spring! Spring has sprung in my little place on earth. The leaves are beginning to bud, my irises are pushing up through the dry soil, little bugs are starting to crawl, and the birds are singing. What more could I ask for? Rain. We are so very dry here in Idaho.
All of this feels early—these are things that usually don’t happen until the end of April or even the first of May. And while I love the promise of spring, I can’t help but feel a little worried. If everything blooms too soon, a late, wet, heavy snow could come and break the branches. It’s happened before, and I’m sure it will happen again.
For now, I’m choosing to enjoy the beauty of this early season… and hope the weather is kind to it.
On My Playlist - A few weeks ago, I went to a thrift store with my daughters and two of my granddaughters. The only thing I came home with was… you guessed it… vinyl records!
I love listening to vinyl instead of the radio or music from my phone or computer. There’s just something about it—the sound, the simplicity—that takes me right back to the “good old days.”
This is one of the albums I found and I am really enjoying it!
The Weather - Well, the wind is always bad this time of year, but it has been especially strong these past few weeks. Two weeks ago, we had wind gusts up to 70 miles an hour. That isn’t common for Idaho. It caused quite a bit of damage, including road closures and a number of car accidents.
We were fortunate not to have any major damage here—just a few broken branches from our big poplar trees—but so many large trees were completely toppled by the wind.
Last week brought very warm temperatures in the upper 70s. Truly, this is so unusual for Idaho! I loved it, but it dried things out even more than they already were.
Today the highs will be in the upper 60's, which is more like it should be. But, the rest of the week will be slightly warmer, even into the upper 70's
Right now I'm - Well, it’s Monday, and I’m trying to reset my house from the weekend craziness. Life just seems to keep moving as fast as it possibly can, and I can’t seem to keep up with it. 😐
I’ve put a load of laundry in, changed my bed, and spent 40 minutes on my rebounder—trying to get both my house and myself back in order. There’s still more to do: something to figure out for dinner, floors to vacuum upstairs and down, and a kitchen that needs tidying.
Some days feel like this… a lot of effort to catch up, to put things back in place, and to find a little calm in the middle of it all. Maybe that’s what Mondays are for.
Thinking and pondering - Lately, I’ve found myself thinking about the unrest in the world. War, wherever it happens, carries such a heavy cost—not just financially, but in the lives and hearts of so many people. It’s hard to take in at times, and it makes me even more grateful for the quiet, ordinary moments at home. I think, more than anything, it leaves me praying for and hoping for peace. My thoughts just continually go to all the things that are happening in the world.
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the changes in my family. As my children grow older, I find myself holding on tightly to the memories we’ve made, while also looking ahead to all the wonderful moments still to come.
A few weeks ago, we went to dinner with Brody, one of my grandsons and his girlfriend. It was such a delight to finally meet her. She is charming, kind, beautiful, and smart—truly seems like the perfect match for him. A few days later, it was Brody’s birthday, and it felt so special to gather together and mark another year of his life. Moments like these remind me how quickly time passes, and how precious each memory becomes.
And then there’s Caleb, who just turned 18—I can hardly believe it! We went to lunch to celebrate, and just watching him, while enjoying the company of his parents and sister, filled my heart with happiness. At the same time, it made me long for the days when I could cuddle him and savor the simple sweetness of his youth.
Just being with him reminds me how quickly time passes, and how precious each memory becomes. I find myself cherishing the past, celebrating the present, and looking ahead with excitement to all the joys still ahead for him.
We also celebrated a birthday for my oldest grandson, Christian. It’s amazing how quickly they grow up—turn into adults, get married, and become such remarkable humans! Earlier this month, we were able to see him and his wonderful wife, Lisa, which was such a treat. They don’t live close to us, but when they are here, Christian and Lisa love spending time with my husband and I.
As a child, he and his sister spent six months living with us while his parents were at the hospital in another state with his youngest sister. During that time, we developed such a beautiful bond with him, and it warms my heart that he still treasures that connection. I love that he enjoys laughing with us, playing games, and asking for advice as he moves forward in life. Seeing him now, thriving and happy, reminds me how precious every stage of life truly is.
How I'm feeling -My health is improving more and more each day! A few weeks ago, I spoke with my doctor, and after reviewing CT scan results, he gave me the wonderful news that I’m free to get on with life—no visit needed for another two months! Rebounding has been such a gift, helping me improve my balance, build stamina, and strengthen my overall health. I still have a few areas to fine-tune, but every day I can feel myself growing stronger and more vibrant. Life feels brighter, and I’m so grateful for this progress!
In the kitchen - Tonight I'm making, Russian Chicken. This recipe is so easy, and perfect with a green salad or a veggie of your choice. Tonight we're having it with green beans and pickled beets.
RUSSIAN CHICKEN FOR TWO
4-5 chicken tenders, cut into 2 inch cubes
1/2 cup apricot or peach jam
1/2 pkg. dry onion soup mix
1/3 jar of Russion salad dressing
(All of these measurments are estimates - put as much or a little of the sauce as you like).
Simply put the chicken in a baking dish. Then mix together the dressing, jam and soup mix. Stir and pour over the top of the raw chicken, stiring to make sure the chicken is coated. Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 min., checking with a thermometer to make sure chicken is done. Enjoy!
We like to serve this chicken over rice or noodles, but it is perfect on it's own.
Looking around the house -
Today, looking around the house, I notice an empty wall where my old piano used to stand. Last Friday, I sold it, and I’ll admit it was bittersweet—I felt a mix of sadness and a little regret. I had that old piano for 35 years, and I loved it. It was very old, most likely built in the early 1800's . . . And she was so pretty! But now that it’s gone, I’m feeling much lighter. The people who bought it seemed so happy, and I know they’ll take good care of it.
Now the real fun begins! I’m going to paint the hallway, dining room, kitchen, and living room. I’ll move the hutch from the dining room into the piano’s spot, which will open up so much more space around the dining table. Onward and upward!
March is the time to bloom with kindness and grow with grace.
Welcome, March! Our month of birthdays, extra cake, and maybe a few added pounds — and so much love. I’m incredibly thankful for all the special people in my life that I will get to celebrate this month. 💗
On my playlist - Written by Hank Williams, “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” is one of my favorite songs. It’s often called one of the most beautiful songs ever written, and I believe that’s true. I especially love Glen Campbell’s version — he sings it so beautifully. It speaks to feelings I carry more often than I wish I did.
The Birthdays – Nathan is our very first March birthday, and he sets the bar high for the whole month. He’s a freshman in high school this year, and somehow he manages to be amazing, smart, talented, and genuinely funny all at the same time! He can be a little goofy (which definitely keeps life interesting), but underneath that is a steady confidence and capability that makes all of us so proud.
Nathan can fix just about anything. If something’s broken, he’s the one we call. He’s an incredible welder—patient, precise, and creative—and he has such a natural artistic ability. It’s a rare and wonderful combination: strong hands that can build and repair, paired with an artistic eye that notices beauty in the details.
He loves to fish, run, ski, play video games, and camp—basically anything that gets him outdoors and moving. He’s happiest with fresh air, open space, and something to accomplish. And yes, he’s very handsome too. ;0) But even more than that, he’s kind, capable, and deeply loved. We are so grateful he is ours to celebrate this month.
Update – Nathan has a bad cold, so we won’t be able to celebrate with him today. :0(
I'm Thinking About - Clara! This is one of my beautiful granddaughters! She is smart, talented, sometimes a little crazy and playful, sometimes quiet, sometimes giggly — but always amazing and so very loved, especially by her family.
Clara is a freshman in high school, and last month she placed first in the state debate competition, competing against seniors! She will be heading to Virginia for the national competition, and we could not be more proud of her. She is also number one in her freshman class at her high school!
She’s a girl after my own heart — I loved debate and speech when I was her age. I’ll be cheering her on every step of the way!
I’m Wearing – Comfy jogging pants, a t-shirt, and my fluffy white slippers. Even though the sun is shining, it’s still cold here in Idaho. Sunshine doesn’t always mean warmth this time of year!
I’m Creating – I ordered the yarn to make a blanket for my granddaughter, and I’m so excited to get started. I hope it turns out as cute as the pattern. I also finished my cross-stitch project! I can still see plenty of little flaws (why do we always notice those first?), but it will be beautiful once it’s framed and hanging on the wall — whether in my home or someone else’s. ;0)
I’m Dreaming About – Warmer weather, garden plans, camping plans, vacation plans, patio-sitting plans… you know, all those things we start dreaming about when spring is on its way.
We’re planning a trip to Nauvoo, Illinois, with one of my daughters and her family this summer. We’re so excited to visit the places that are so important to my faith — to walk the same ground the early Saints once walked, to imagine their sacrifices, their courage, and their deep trust in the Lord. There’s something powerful about standing in a place where so much faith was lived out in real, ordinary days. I’m looking forward not just to seeing the historic sites, but to feeling the Spirit there and remembering what matters most. There’s still plenty of planning to do, but we’re getting there — slowly but surely.
I’m Working On – Getting into shape and building my stamina. I bought a rebounder (aka, a mini trampoline), and I’ve been using it for about two weeks now. I love it! I can already feel improvement in my balance, stamina, and strength. If you’ve been thinking about something easy and effective, get a rebounder. It’s also fun! I put on some upbeat music, pop in my earbuds, and bounce away.
From My Kitchen – Earlier this week, I was in the mood for soup. It was cold, snowy, and windy — basically a perfect soup day. I always buy a rotisserie chicken when I go to Sam's Club because they’re delicious and one of the best bargains in the store at $4.98 each.
This week, I put the chicken bones in the Instant Pot along with carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and a few tablespoons of vinegar, then pressure-cooked it for two hours. Perfect bone broth every time. I picked through the bones and vegetables, saving the good bits for Indy, and discarded the rest. Then I added more fresh vegetables, some chopped cooked chicken, and a can of white beans to the broth. It was delicious with fresh rolls — I love a good, brothy soup.
I also made bread. I usually bake bread every two weeks.
I decided to make cookies for Bob. He's been asking me to make these for a long time. I love a nice chewy chocolate chip cookie. He loves fluffy, soft, chocolate chip cookies. This could be problem! But, This recipe is the best one I've found for perfect, fluffy, delicious chocolate chip cookie...
I'll freeze these cookies and just take a few out when we want them, and keep a few to eat this week.
Something Fun - On Friday, we went to the Elk refuge in, Jackson Hole, Wyoming with my daughter and her family. It was a windy day, but not too cold... Just a gorgeous and fun day.
When we boarded the wagon and started talking with the young woman who was taking us on the tour and steering the wagon, we realized we knew her. She’s the same age as my granddaughter — they went to school together and played baseball together for years! I remember her being such a fun, bright young woman. She still is!
It really is such a small world. My granddaughter was so excited when she saw this photo — it brought back so many memories for her. It made the tour even more special for me.
You can see Snow King ski slope in the background. I learned to ski at Snow King... Such great memories! A few runs have been added since I skied there ;0)
You can see how bare the ground is this year. Usually, you would take the wagon ride in the snow and watch them feed the elk, but because of the lack of snow, there has been enough vegetation to feed all of the elk and buffalo this year. This of course is just a few of the elk on the elk refuge where we were, and no buffalo... There are actually another two thousand or so elk that we could see way in the background.
The horses that pulled our wagon were a beautiful pair of Percheron's. Their names are Colt and Rugger. They are smaller than some of the other teams they have at the refuge, but they're so beautiful and equally strong. It made me miss the days when we had our own horses in our pasture.
At The End Of The Day - I haven't really looked for sunsets lately. I know they are there, somewhere under the clouds. This is a beautiful sunset photo from, September of 2024.
Just sayin' -
I hope you all have a wonderful week ahead. I will try to have one as well.
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