Thursday 4 March 2021

Six Favourite Comforting, Satisfying Things

 I think we all know what we like and need to make our days feel productive and enjoyable. Here are six of the many things that make me feel satisfied and content with my life even in a continuing lockdown state.

1...Good Food

I love how my appetite is still strong for good food. I love finding a new way of cooking something that I've been eating all my life.  Take eggs for instance.  Lately I've been making scrambled eggs alongside rice and veggies with a little sauce of balsamic vinegar, dash of soya sauce and honey. This makes a quick nourishing lunch and I don't think I've ever eaten these two dishes together this way before. Like a new comfort food dish for me. 

No eggs in this one but I love this video from Ree, the Pioneer Woman. Her Top Ten Comfort Food list. I also love the tops she is wearing in this one especially the pretty red/pink one while making Corn and Cheese Chowder.  

I also enjoy seeing your photos of food in your posts and following any foodie links you share.

2...My indoor garden

I enjoy everything about gardening and feel rewarded with the smallest little growing things.

 Keeping these plants healthy throughout our rather dark winter months is a challenge. Remembering to keep the geraniums pinched back so they don't get too leggy reaching for the scant light is important.
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Getting to this stage of later winter and seeing most of the plants still hanging on and growing a little too is satisfying.

3...My Books with the addition of Audios nowadays

I've written that I thought of having a blog about books but being eclectic in my tastes and hobbies, I would find it constraining to stick to just one topic for posts. I realized the blogs I loved the most were ones that showed various aspects of life not just one hobby. So I've kept this space as one where I can natter on about whatever interests me or crosses my mind. 

Where ever I sit, a mound of books grows around me. I try my best to keep it neat and tidy. But I want at hand my thesaurus, my daily journal, my blogging notebook, whatever poetry book I'm reading, the novel that I'm reading, my bird books, and in season my gardening books -yes, a lot of books.

I also love my laptop desk.

One of my worst dreams was one where I couldn't see and realized I wouldn't be able to read. I woke in a state and then thought, how foolish; I would learn braille I told myself- you ninny. That wouldn't be so bad. 

I'm pretty sure that dream was triggered by seeing a girl at the university library use what looked like a powerful and complex monocle of some sort that she passed over every line of a book she was reading. I was a little fascinated as I watched her progress across and down the pages with this monocle pressed to her eye and the book pressed to it. 

4...Sharing my life with another species, something David Suzuki says we humans should all do. 

 In my present case, a dog is living with me though there have also been cats in the past. Murphy is great company and loyal (though not in the way that Rex was as I always felt he was guarding me); she is always by my side. Getting me up and outdoors walking is just one of the ways she is benefitting me. 

Here we are down by the pond last August (the pond was getting quite dry at that stage). Oh my eyes are loving all the green growing things in this photo. I also remember how warm that grass felt to be sitting on it.


5...Taking photographs
Thanks to this blog, my interest in photography has grown. I've realized how much fun there is in taking photographs especially in my case, of nature.  And out of that has grown an interest in macro photography. Though I don't have the kind of equipment to be super macro, my little camera affords me the opportunity to at least dabble in this field. Here is a tiny Kalanchoe plant, a Christmas gift, that is obligingly blooming just now. Reminding me of sweet Easter like blooms.

Last but definitely not least  #6 on this list is...My Stitching Hobbies and these I count on to keep my hands busy and my mind free from worry.

Drawing and possibly appliqueing Tulips are on my mind this week. The only thing I'm sure of is that I want them to be biggish, possibly bright and maybe colourful.  Okay so I'm still not sure of what exactly they might be...more combing the stash and scrap bins today before settling on colours. The only thing I know for sure is that I want an appliqued project to see me into spring...hand stitching being my favourite way to roll.  

I admired Quilty Folk's Audrey's chunky tulip project to be seen here  and also her Autumnal Tulips here and downloaded the pattern that she generously shared for a while. Then I admired Little Penguin Quilts Diann's pretty tulips to be seen at this post.  So I've been percolating some tulip ideas. As a motif, they appeal to me and I like how they can be vintage or modern, small or large. And how there is an abundance of totally tulip inspiration on the net. For instance, Lynn Dykstra alone has collated over 300 tulip quilt patterns for her Pinterest Board...well worth a visit.

This is one of my favourite Spring time appliqued finishes and I look forward to putting it on the wall again soon. 

Meanwhile, the Sawtooth Stars are growing in number. Thanks to all who kindly offered suggestions as to how these are winding up with differing points and sizes. Also nice to know I'm not the only one who grapples with accuracy from time to time. 

There you have it...six of the many things I'm enjoying while basically confined to home for over a year now. Writing about them helped me see that though I've had my hard times long before the pandemic, life is good just now. I'm so thankful my days are filled with personally rewarding and interesting activities. And thankful to you, dear readers, especially those who kindly comment and encourage and offer help and inspiration. 

Always wonderful to link with Not Afraid of ColorJaipur GardeningMy Quilt InfatuationSo ScrappyApplique Quilting PatchworkLife in PiecesQuilting is More Fun Than HouseworkKathy's QuiltsFloral Friday FotoSmall Quilts and Doll QuiltsIn the Jesh Studio and Brian's Home Blog.






 




43 comments :

Brian's Home Blog said...

Those really are six wonderful thankfuls, seriously! A lot of Ree's recipes have been cooked up here lately. Thanks for joining our Thankful Thursday Blog Hop!

Jenny said...

Oh, books, how bland our lives would be without this pleasure. Cooking too, nothing nicer than a home cooked meal. And stitching, knitting, whatever hand crafts we do, so enjoyable to be doing the things we love. Give Murphy a pat from me, she is a lovely dog.

Karen - Quilts...etc. said...

I like reading a variety of blogs too - a little bit of this and that makes it interesting and love seeing what books others are reading I have found some good books that way. Love your plants - you have a green thumb it looks like.

Timmy Tomcat said...

An amazing list and we share a few, amazing!

Juliana said...

I really enjoyed your blog post today. I love reading about the ways other women fill their lives with small pleasures and joys.

Enigmas thoughts said...

Lovely post! There is much to be thankful for and thank you for sharing. 👍😁

Robin said...

Lovely post. I need to sit myself down and make a list of the things that make me content at this time instead of feeling unsettled because I am homebound. Very uplifting. . .

Ruth Hiebert said...

I admire your stitching, even though that is something I don’t care to do. I love photography and the joy it brings me. Hopefully, soon we will see that lush green outside.

Jackie said...

Wonderful reasons to be thankful. You definitely have a green thumb. Love your indoor garden.

God bless.

PaintedThread said...

Food - my favorite dish! My rosemary is starting to come back - I was worried it didn't survive. I'm looking forward to the birdsong - the titmice have already changed their tune. :-) I like your sewing and photos too.

LIttle Penguin Quilts said...

Your plants look so happy and healthy, Jocelyn - it's good to have green indoors while we're waiting for green outdoors! So kind of you to mention my tulip project, too. I sure enjoyed working on it, and kept it small so it wouldn't overwhelm me! I'll have to check out that Pinterest collection of tulip ideas.

grammajudyb said...

I so enjoyed your blog today! I too find comfort in green growing things! My Christmas cactus (cacti) are still having a few hot pink blooms. So much fun on a dreary day!
My cooking lately has been boring! I need to explore some videos and maybe try your eggs, rice a veggie! It sounds yummy!
Good luck on your tulips, my favorite spring flower!

gladiquilts said...

Hi Jocelyn. No wonder I enjoy your blog so much - we have a lot of interests in common, especially stitching, books, and food. I also have many house plants, though am not an outdoor gardener, and my interest in photography is growing. I love cats and have had many during my life, but my husband became allergic to them (dogs too) so we haven’t had any for many years 🙁. The one thing on my list that isn’t on yours is music - I have a lot of musician friends, belong to a music group, am part of a band, and play my accordion regularly! Your sawtooth stars are looking beautiful! Thanks for this great post!

Linda said...

Love your indoor garden, but I'm in love with that teapot! That is a great photo of you and Murphy. I could almost feel and smell that grass. Those kalanchoe blooms are beautiful. You are teasing us with that pretty peek at your tulip.

Bonnie said...

I relate to all six of your things. Although not that I do all of them (or even want to!) I share cooking with hubby who tends to do more than me. I like my small indoor garden but can't stand the heat during the normal summer gardening time. Books -- what a great variety you have. Dogs are wonderful. We are without one at this time. Sigh. You get the point... you've really picked universal things you like. Enjoy all of your favorites this weekend.

MissPat said...

What a lovely list of satisfying things. It is good to reflect on all the positive things in our lives, especially in this time of pandemic isolation. I've gotten my first vaccine dose and I must say, it is amazing how much more hopeful it makes one feel. We're certainly not out of the woods yet, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

I saw two bluebirds this morning through my kitchen window. It seems early for them to be here. I hope they find enough to eat.

So nice to see your tulip wall hanging again. I think that's the one I sent you green scraps for the leaves. I have a big purple tulip I made last spring from a Pat Sloan pattern, but never finished. I should definitely get that done and hang it on the front door. I don't grow tulips because of the deer.

My geraniums have buds and two of the Thanksgiving cacti are getting ready for a second bloom. Spring is coming, if we are patient just a little longer.
Pat

Deb A said...

You picked some great things! I wish I was able to keep plants alive.... they seem to get neglected in the watering department. Good thing kids don't need watering! I think having a variety of interests makes for a full and enjoyable life. If one things doesn't appeal right then, there is always something else to keep you entertained. I don't know what I would do without my kitty companions.

Chopin - A Passionate Quilter said...

What a wonderful post Jocelyn! Your Tulips and Stars are beauties!

Siouxzq64@gmail.com said...

I keep trying new recipes. Most of them are meh. Some I throw my own spin and it makes them better. I struggle with houseplants. I think my sun porch gets too hot, so I need to move them into the main house but I don't have a lot of light in there.....Yep animals help get through life and give us smiles. LOL Bobbin always puts herself between me and any stranger she sees. Not too sure how a 10 lb dog thinks she is going to save me. You have awesome likes this week.

Alycia~Quiltygirl said...

What a happy Uplifting post!! LOVE your tulips quilt - it is just so bright and happy! Thanks for linking to Finished ( or not) Friday!! What a lovely addition!!!

Sylvia@Treadlestitches said...

Thank you for this beautiful post! It is so helpful for all of us to remember all the good things we are thankful for. Your photos are lovely.

Nana said...

I think tulips out of fabrics are even nicer!!!!

Nana

Frédérique - Quilting Patchwork Appliqué said...

Wonderful gratitude post, your indoor garden is lovely, your dog looks very sweet, and your tulips are gorgeous! Full of colors, bright and beautiful, it's a lovely mini quilt for Spring!
Thank you for linking up today.

The Joyful Quilter said...

Sweet Tulip quilt and such pretty GREEN blocks for the Rainbow Scrap Challenge, Jocelyn!!

Maggie said...

Finding joy in the little things in life, helps us appreciate everything we have. We are blessed in more ways than ons.

audrey said...

Ooh, the little glimpse of your tulip quilt looks to be very sweet! I am a huge fan of course.:) Thanks for the shout out! I enjoy your nature pics and feel a bit envious, but photography is just not my thing. Thanks for sharing!

Sherrie said...

Hi Jocelyn,
Lots of great pictures you shared...I can't pick just one. Looking forward to seeing what you do with your Tulip idea. My quilting and crocheting keeps me sane during these trying times. I haven't been to an actual store to buy anything for ages. I order everything on line or my son makes a run for me. Have a great day!

la tulipe said...

I love your tulips quilt. I think it's always a pleasure ton hang it at the beginning of every spring!

Michele McLaughlin said...

Dear Jocelyn, I often wait until Sunday to read your post because I can take my time and savor your posts! You write so well! I love your tulip quilt and really envy that you can grow so many plants inside. Our house is just too dark! I've got a similar stack of books and mags near my chair too. I hope you have the best week and continue on those stars! I like them with the flowers in the middle! Have a wonderful week!

Karrin Hurd said...

Great list of things to be thankful for! I too love good food, reading is a big part of my life. Don't have any pets right now. Lovely blocks you have made. I like tulip blocks too. Always love seeing your beautiful photography! Hope you have a great week!

Little Penpen said...

A nice list to ponder and you definitely have a green thumb. I really like that tulip quilt! 🌷

Kim said...

You have many interests to cause you to be thankful and put many a smile in your day. Love the photo of you with your Murphy out and about, enjoying the beautiful landscape. Love too that little teapot in which the plant sits. Your Saw Tooth is looking great and I love the little peek of your tulip in that gorgeous fabric.

Cynthia Brunz Designs said...

Fun post Jocelyn. Thanks for linking up with Oh Scrap!

QuiltGranma said...

Beautiful quilts, beautiful quilt parts, beautiful flowers (already?), and who took the picture of you and doggie? Selfie stick stuck in the ground with a timer?

Arun Goyal said...

Beautiful indoor Garden , Those containers for growing indoor plants are pretty awesome. Thanks for joining in Garden Affair.

Susie H said...

I believe we have a lot in common. I too like recipes and Ree's are usually so easy to make and tasty! Mom & I watch her new shows every Saturday morning. I like gardening and am always interested in what's going on in everyone's dirt. Fun to see from the many locations across the globe. Of course quilting is my passion and I too admire and follow Audrey & Diann and I enjoy seeing everyone's progress whether in distress or triumph. Every point we master, every seam we match, every surprise color we add .... I love it all too. Nice post!

Kate said...

Lots to be thankful for. Your flower photograph is lovely. Your star blocks are coming along beautifully. Looking forward to see you quilty tulip garden start growing. Have a great week.

Rosemary Dickinson said...

I just love all your likes! Love the tulips! You definitely have a green thumb!

junie-Jesh said...

How you get all six things in a day - you're amazing:) Love you made the teapot a planter. Actually my plants have done very well this winter, since I transported them from California. Great capture of you in your garden and sharing this delightful post with All Seasons. Have an adventurous week, Jesh

Judy Hansen said...

Hi Jocelyn,
I love tulip quilts too, and have made one for a friend. Your blog post makes me want to make another one. Yesterday, my hubby brought me a pot of six red tulips just ready to bloom. It is in my kitchen and along with your blog post, is calling me to make a tulip block. Hugs, Judy

Angie said...

Jocelyn - great minds think alike ... my post this week is about simple delights. Food and nature were high on my list as well!

Jeanne said...

I agree with all your points, including the stitchery (see my post...) I agree sharing photography increases interest!

K Reeves said...

What an enjoyable read this was Jocelyn! We share several things from your list!