Weekend Musings: ‘Tis the Season to Be Jolly!
Christmas is upon us! Now, we all know this holiday season has looked very different than our past ones. However, I was thinking about what it means to be jolly, especially now.
Jolly means “happy and cheerful,” via the dictionary. And, there are so many things that make me feel happy and cheerful. To name a few, my husband Shelly, my pup America, my daughters, my extended family, and grandchildren… aka my Grands! As I grow in age, I realize how each year brings new perspectives and a deeper appreciation for family. Just the other day, I felt a wave of gratitude and warmth as I thought about all these blessings.
My home, the new organization in my closet, and all around my home, the food on my plate, and of course… all of you! Sometimes, stepping outside and feeling the crisp winter air on my face reminds me to appreciate these simple joys, especially when I sit in my favorite corner of the home to enjoy the moment.
So, no matter our circumstances, we can still feel jolly this season. Even though we all bear certain burdens during this time, I’m feeling hopeful and uplifted. I am smiling! It’s nice to have these moments of joy and connection.
Introduction to the Season
As we step into this beautiful season, I find myself filled with so much joy and weekend musing about all the little things that make life sparkle. There’s something magical about the way kids’ eyes light up, excited for Christmas as the holidays approach, and I can’t help but feel that same sense of hope and anticipation. My family and I are looking forward to every moment—whether we’re decorating the house together, having decided to plan a festive party this year, or simply savoring a warm cup of coffee on a quiet Sunday morning. This season is truly a time to celebrate the beauty of life, to gather with loved ones, and to look forward with excitement to all the promise the future holds. Let’s embrace the joy, the hope, and the togetherness that make this time of year so special!
Shop Till You Drop at Our New Honey Good Shop!
Darling, as you know I LOVE sharing my favorite items and ideas for gifts or holiday shopping for you to buy and enjoy for yourself or for your loved ones. I recently wrote a blog of a few of my favorite things for your Holiday Online Shopping.
Well, I had an even better idea… creating a beautiful Honey Good Shop Page! You can easily access it through the direct link provided. The shop page is informative, offering recommendations and inspiration for your holiday needs. It’s new and improved and includes all of my holiday items plus much more. I will continuously add more items as the weeks go by. Don’t forget to save your favorite items or deals for later. So, check back and discover new items or sections—you never know what you might find!
Weekend Planning: Making the Most of Your Days Off
There’s something truly special about the weekend—a chance to step back from the hustle of the week and focus on the things that bring so much joy to our lives. I’ve found that a little planning goes a long way in making the most of these precious days off. Start by jotting down a few things you’d love to accomplish, whether it’s spending quality time with family, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying the beauty of the season. Maybe you want to try a new recipe, take a fun walk in the fresh air, or just relax and watch your favorite movie.
Don’t forget to leave a little room for spontaneity! Sometimes, the most memorable moments come from unexpected adventures or last-minute plans. Reflecting on the past week can help you decide what you need most—maybe it’s a quiet afternoon to recharge, or maybe it’s a lively gathering with loved ones. As a mom, a friend, or simply someone who loves living life to the fullest, being intentional with your weekend can help you feel more balanced and fulfilled.
So, as you look forward to the weekend, think about what will make you feel happiest. Prioritize those things, embrace the fun, and savor every moment. After all, a well-spent weekend sets the tone for a joyful week ahead!
No Fireplace? No Problem!
It can be hard to create a cozy atmosphere without a fireplace, but I have a secret: a fireplace app on our Smart TV! So many of you loved it. If you don’t want an app, you can either use YouTube, like the video below, or watch the Yule Log on Netflix! Just hit play on your favorite fireplace app or video for the full effect. If you live in an apartment and don’t have a fireplace, this is perfect! Focus on small details to help create a warm, inviting space. Cozy up and let your mind think you’re sitting by a warm cracking fire. Enjoy!
The Best Cookbooks of 2020
I love cookbooks! In fact, I included a few I love in my Shop Page (check Books and Home & Kitchen sections). I find that reading cookbooks is a great source of inspiration, and I always love to learn new cooking techniques or dishes from them. I love to read new cookbooks for ideas and inspiration, and often find myself enjoying the process of reading through recipes even before I try them. One particularly interesting recipe I tried recently was the homemade apple cider donuts recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction—it’s become a favorite in our house! Town and Country created a lovely list of The Best Cookbooks of 2020. It includes so many different kinds of cookbooks for any person or family. Some are full of more difficult recipes and others are very easy! The difference a great recipe can make in a family meal is truly remarkable.
Since we will be at home awhile longer, we might as well keep our plates and bellies happy. Don’t you agree?
Community and Connection
One of the greatest joys in life is the sense of community and connection we share with others, and the weekend is the perfect time to nurture those bonds. Whether you’re gathering with friends for coffee, attending a Sunday church service, or hosting a cozy party at home, these moments of togetherness are what make life truly beautiful. Even a simple walk with a loved one can spark meaningful conversations and create memories that last.
If you haven’t seen certain friends or family members in a while, why not reach out and suggest catching up over a cup of coffee or a stroll through the neighborhood? Volunteering or joining a local event can also be a wonderful way to meet new people and feel more connected to your community. Remember, it’s often the little things—a kind word, a listening ear, a shared laugh—that make the biggest difference in someone’s day.
Let’s use this season to focus on love, kindness, and celebration. Take time to appreciate the people who fill your life with joy, and don’t be afraid to show them how much they’re loved. As we celebrate togetherness, we create a ripple effect of happiness and warmth that touches everyone around us. So, this weekend, let’s celebrate, connect, and watch our lives become even more rich and fulfilling.
This Week’s Roundup of Blog Posts Include:
Like Mother Like Daughter: The Story of Traveling Dishes
Why You Should Practice Self-Care After 50+
How to Pamper Your Pup This Winter!
Making the Holiday Season Joyful During the Pandemic
Be Fierce, Adaptable and Committed in Elsewhere
5 Holiday Movie Classics to Enjoy This Weekend
Why Reflecting Matters
There’s a quiet power in taking a moment to reflect on your weekend—on the things that brought you joy, the challenges you faced, and the lessons you learned. Weekend musing isn’t just a lovely tradition; it’s a meaningful way to grow in confidence and live a more intentional life. By pausing to write down your thoughts, talk with a friend, or simply sit in stillness, you gain valuable insights into what truly matters to you.
Reflection helps you process your feelings, celebrate your wins, and gently move forward from any difficulties. It’s a chance to check in with yourself, realign with your values, and set intentions for the week ahead. Whether you’re reading, writing, or just enjoying a quiet moment, this practice can fill you with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
So, as the weekend draws to a close, take a few minutes to muse on your experiences. What made you feel alive? What are you grateful for? What do you want to carry forward into the coming week? By making reflection a regular part of your routine, you’ll find yourself living with more clarity, confidence, and happiness—ready to embrace all the beauty life has to offer.
Seasonal Reminiscence
With the change of seasons, especially as winter gives way to spring, I can’t help but reminisce about holidays past and all the joy they brought. The arrival of spring brings new memories and opportunities, inviting us outdoors and inspiring fresh starts. There’s a special kind of magic in gathering with friends and family, whether we’re making homemade gifts, sharing a delicious meal, or simply enjoying the aroma of coffee and freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. Many times, the best memories come from these simple moments that we often take for granted. I love the way this season invites us to celebrate life, to throw a party or enjoy a quiet evening in, and to fill our homes with laughter and love. Looking back, I’m reminded of the beauty in living fully in each moment and cherishing the faces of those we love. I don’t want to miss out on the special moments this season brings. As we move forward, I hope you’ll join me in embracing the wonder of the season—let’s create new memories, celebrate together, and fill our days with all the things that bring us so much joy!
Reflection and Gratitude
As the weekend arrives, I love to take a moment to reflect on the week that’s passed and all the things that have brought me joy. This week, I sat quietly for a while, letting my thoughts settle and appreciating the peace. There’s something so comforting about slowing down and appreciating the simple pleasures—like sharing a funny moment with family (like when the dog stole my sock and suddenly everyone was chasing him around the house), taking a walk in the crisp air to process my thoughts and find gratitude, or curling up with a good book. Sometimes, I catch myself scrolling through Instagram and realize it can distract me from truly meaningful reflection.
I feel incredibly grateful for my family and am loving the simple moments we share together, no matter how big or small. The power of words really stands out to me during these times—expressing gratitude and reflection helps me connect more deeply with those around me. I’m also grateful to God for the blessings in my life, and I believe that preaching kindness and gratitude, even in small ways, can make a real difference. Each season brings its own unique joys, and as I look forward to what’s ahead, my heart is full of gratitude for the loved ones and experiences that make life so rich. Here’s to cherishing every moment and finding joy in all the things that make our days brighter!
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