The Most Depressing Day-Embrace It!

Gray skies got you down? Are you having a blue Monday? Well if you are, it turns out you are right on schedule! It turns out Somebody somewhere determined that January 24, 2011 is the most depressing day of this year. Christmas bills in the mail, broken resolutions, blah, blah, blah. Somebody has forgotten the resilience of the human spirit. Someone doesn’t know us!

It looks like a good day to retreat to me. So much attention is given to the Man Cave. All I need is this one little corner to nest in….a Nester’s Nook :). This is a corner in my formal living room—seldom used, but always tidy and inviting, and just perfect for me.

Here is picture of that corner of the room that my husband calls a huge waste of space. He may be right, but on days like this it doesn’t feel that way.

Whenever I’m feeling just a little down, it helps me to remember the many things for which I am grateful. My sweet daughter always makes sure I have cute journal to record them in. It also helps me to take the focus off myself—a good time to use pretty stationary to write someone a note just to say “I’m thinking of you”.

Who says hot cocoa has to be served in a chunky mug? I much prefer my “pinky-out” cup and saucer :) One painted in beautiful spring flowers is even better.

These belonged to my MIL. I have a set of eight with four different set of flowers. There is not a mark on the bottom of either the cup or saucer. I would love to know their history. Do any of you have ideas?

I’m listening to a little James Taylor and Carol King—Live at the Troubadour. Depressing? Chocolate, books, music, a snug corner. Sounds like a good Monday to me :)

I am linking to Marty at A Stroll Thru Life for Tabletop Tuesday. Click here to join the party. Thanks for visiting!~~Susan

Recipe for the Perfect Storm

Sometimes the stars align just right, conditions all come together, and the stage is set for the perfect storm. No, not the kind that produces torrential rain or snow….but, that’s part of it. On Monday morning, I awoke to this

A beautiful winter wonderland in a place more accustomed to power-threatening sleet than pretty white soft stuff.

Our house which lately has resembled the “Do Drop Inn” looked like this… not just empty….peacefully, joyfully quiet :)

Beloved closed up early and came home with plans to rest up for the big game. And while we are not Auburn fans, I always root for the SEC.

After a quick kitchen inventory, I knew I had the ingredients to complete both the recipe for a perfect evening and a perfect-for- the-occasion soup.

Dinner for two in front of the fire….and the flat screen tv :)

The fire’s reflection caught in mom’s old Community silverplate—White Orchid.

Is there anything better than a warm fire, warm soup, and a warm hand to hold?

Beef and Cabbage Soup

1 1/2 pound ground chuck

1 small head cabbage, cut into large pieces

1 large onion, chopped

28 ounces water (use the tomato can)

2 cans red kidney beans (dark or light)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

3 stalks celery, chopped

3 tablespoons beef soup base

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon black pepper

28 ounces stewed or crushed tomatoes (we prefer the larger stewed)

Brown beef with onions and celery. Add all other ingredients and extra water if needed. Simmer covered for at least one hour.

Serve with the best-ever cornbread recipe here.

Simple, huh?

I am joining my friends Susan at Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday and Michael Lee West for Foodie Friday. You can find them by clicking on their buttons on the sidebar!

I know I have been sporadic in my posting and even more so in my visiting. Both sets of wedding plans are well under way. I am working on a whole new room and a surpise I hope to share with you soon :) Thanks for hanging in there with me!~~Susan