Saturday Suggestions: Inspirations for Your Weekend

 

Good morning and happy Saturday, friends! I am not the least bit pleased with Mr. Groundhog’s forecast last weekend. I enjoyed the peek of spring we had this week, but I guess it didn’t feel like staying. Maybe next time. Well, regardless of which season shows up today, here are some fun finds for you. Enjoy!

In all my massive (and successful!) overhauling of my wardrobe over the past year, one thing I did not tend to was my “athleisure” clothing. (I don’t actually care for that term, but I’ll use it here so you know what I mean!) Most of my clothing that fits into that category is leftover, misshapen, ill-fitting clothing that used to be part of my regular wardrobe and was downgraded after no longer fitting – or just from use that made it look ratty. I can do better. But I want to be as intentional about shaping up this part of my clothing as I was the everyday-wear. Audrey from Putting Me Together has some great inspirations in this post. I’ll probably shop for my pieces secondhand, but this at least helps me know what to look for as I shop!

I mentioned the other day that the ladies from our Sunday School class have been getting together more regularly to enjoy fellowship. I think one of these days we should borrow this idea from Kari Anne and learn about some of our favorite things! Kari Anne has this one themed for Valentine’s Day, but it would work beautifully any time of year! I’ve been trying to think what I would pick for my favorite thing for this kind of party. What would you pick?? (BONUS: Brendt also did a similar party, so I’ll share her link too in case you need more ideas for favorite things! I liked the snackle box!)

I don’t think Wisconsin gets me any closer to WARM weather, but I do think this log cabin on a lake is pretty stunning. So much character on the interior, and my favorite part is the interior window! I also love the fireplace. It has solid presence. The whole thing reminds me of a modern (and very large) Little House on the Prairie. (BONUS: Mississippi, on the other hand, would be a bit warmer, don’t you think? This beautiful home remodeled on the TV show Hometown is on the market. Isn’t it gorgeous? I can’t decide if I love the kitchen or bathroom more.)

I know I am guilty of missing what’s right in front of me – and I suspect I’m not alone in that. These words by Anna Rendell are a beautiful reminder that God can work a whole lot of miracles in ten seconds – and He can do it right in front of our eyes. Do se see those miracles or do we miss them? Something to chew on today. (BONUS: And even while awaiting a miracle, Jesus is with you in your grief, as Ann Voskamp so eloquently wrote in this piece. If you’re hurting today, don’t miss her words.)

I know we’re already a week into February, but this robust offering from Yvonne is full to overflowing with ideas of things to do and celebrate this month. She has something (several, actually) for every single day, as well as some yummy-looking recipes, cleaning ideas, and even some hints and hope for the spring to come. It’s fun to read, even if you don’t put anything into practice, but if winter has dragged on for you, maybe a little celebration is in order. Check it out!

When I read this piece by Anjuli Paschall, I was reminded of our days at WillowBridge and the community we tried to build there. It feels to me like our outcome may have been different than what she writes about here, but her words are still lovely. I actually tucked them away to share later with a group at church, but I wanted to also share them here with you. My favorite line is this one: Sometimes we don’t have enough strength to get to the table where God meets us. In those moments, God brings the table right to us. My heart’s desire is to pull that table closer to the people who need a seat but don’t have the strength to get there.

·         For the last almost two years now, we have been using Branch Basics cleaning products for our house and laundry, and we are pleased with its results and the lack of chemicals inside. This isn’t a bargain product, but we are willing to cut costs in other areas to invest here. Last week I went through and filled up all our bottles again (it comes as a concentrate that you mix with distilled water) and we are ready to go ahead of spring cleaning! I realize you might not use this company, and that’s fine – but it’s a great time to make sure you’re prepared with whatever you need for post-winter deep cleans, and if you’ve been considering a switch to a less toxic cleaning company, just know that we have liked this one.

·         Is your phone full of pictures? Winter is a great time to scroll through and delete photos: duplicates, blurry shots, and pictures you don’t love. Back up your pictures, if you haven’t already, just in case something happens to your phone! This is easy to do while watching TV, waiting for an appointment, or riding along in a vehicle.  (I need to take my own advice on this one.)