We spent lots of leisurely hours outside, under the mulberry tree, soaking up sun rays, reading and eating popsicles.
The frustrations of living in this part of the United States have been creeping up on me again, and I have been trying to fight it once more without getting my hopes to high for a possible change - this coming and going of very raw feelings have been so challenging to fight and master over the last three years - it is a work in progress I guess.
Some things we have been up to lately.
Gardening.
Our garden is surprisingly thriving - I honestly don't have much experience in gardening and have tried the seedling thing (it was an epic failure) so as a last resort before missing the window, I just dump all my seeds into the ground, covered them, watered them, and hoped for the best. It seems to be the way to go - surprise surprise - or not -ha!
We have been loving going out there first thing in the morning to see if any new veggies have popped up over night. If you are on our Facebook, make sure to check out Facebook stories every once in a while.
Flowers.
Our flower game is still going strong, and we are even able to gather a few from the garden. Hayleigh's love for flowers, makes me so incredibly happy - I don't even know why - but it is one of my favorite things we share together.
Art.
We love art in this house, not just any art but kids art. I love that my kids love to draw and create. So my sweet friend from Freebird Co-Op created this beautiful piece of art with the kids drawing on it. I am so in love with it, and I would highly recommend her services.
Renovations.
After a two year hiatus from renovating - our game is strong again - we are finally finishing up all the unfinished parts of the house, as well as the back patio, and it has actually been pretty fun. It will probably be a long process, but that is ok.
My newest love.
I have been trying to change our home fragrance systems from candles, and Scentsy wax to diffusing essential oils. The candles and wax have actually been playing a role in some of my migraines with the help of other scented household items, so we have been diligently working in eliminating the culprits, This diffuser is both pretty and practical - my kind of thing - simple yet pretty! I am head over heels.
Afternoon cat naps.
Millie is still such a sweet joy to all of us, since the first day that we got her. She is seriously one of the coolest cats ever. You can find her making rounds on all the beds in the afternoon to take a quick cat-nap in preparation for her nightly activities - which consist of exploring and hunting - and sharing her catch - mostly in the middle of the night. Nevertheless, I so can't imagine our life without her.
Meet Marshall.
Mable have been joined by Marshall. These tortoises are seriously so much fun, they aren't as shy anymore, and the come right up to the back door now, they will even come inside when the door is open. Local friends, if you find any rogue tortoises bring the over.
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Tortoise but, is seriously one of the cutest things. |
Kitchen time.
My kids have been on this food kick, and it makes this mama so happy. We have been cooking together almost daily (join us on Facebook stories) and it has been so much fun. It is one of my favorite things to do - it took me a while to ease into sharing my space, but I love it now.
Swing time.
So Hayleigh wanted a swing, so she made one herself. I am kind of impressed with her creativity - she is has given up on the flower shop in order to become and inventor. To be a kid - I love it.
Golden raspberries.
Our obsessions with these golden beauties continues. They are seriously amazing.
Walnut, Pecan, Hempseed, and Chia Seed Energy Balls.
Also a new obsession for the perfect snack. Recipe to come soon. They taste amazing.
Cookbook junkie status.
Hello, my name is Chantal, and I am addicted to cookbooks, food magazines, and really anything that contains recipes.
Here is my latest finds.
Also one of my favoutite spots in the house.
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We are busy planning and working on birthday parties - the kids and Nate have convinced me, even though it is somewhat stressful, I am kind of having fun putting it all together.
Stay tune for the last of summer, and birthday celebrations!
Happy Monday!
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