February Update

I am so ready for spring just like everyone else, but I have tried to make the best of being indoors this month. Here is the month of February in review.

If you can't get outside, why not cheer yourself up with roses. I bought 2 bouquets after Valentine's Day for half off at Publix. It was a very good decision. 

I am so ready to get outside and get things growing, but Ole Man Winter has had other ideas. I did get out and get my roses pruned and put new straw in the beds.

I planted three camellia bushes last winter after last year's winter killed off some of the palm like plants. I love them and don't know why I hadn't already done this. They are blooming now and are providing that much needed color and hope for making it to spring.

I know I sound like the cold is just so unbearable here on the Gulf Coast. I think I might be just a tad bit spoiled. I am not one pining away for snow. Pretty in pictures, but not a bit interested in seeing it anymore in person.

The Burpee's seed catalog arrived. I absolutely adore browsing through it. 

Like I said, I can't wait for spring!!!

Now, onto other news.

My mama is doing much better after our high blood pressure scares last month. We have two doctor appointments next week, but I have to say she is doing so much better. Thankful for that.

I have had much more success this month with my cleaning schedule. I am falling into a bit more a routine and I must say it feels so good. I finally listened to all those that said, "clean that sink out before you go to bed." I must say it is really nice to wake up to that in the morning. I also discovered Bar Keeper's Friend. It has renewed my 30 year old sink. I am loving it.

The other routine I love is the bed made as soon as I get up. You know I did that for so many years, but the last 10 years, I worked at an early start school and it kicked my butt. You are just so less likely to lay anything down and start the clutter pile if the bed is made.

It has taken me a while to really settle into retirement. I am not sure I am completely there, but I am loving the being at home and taking care of the hubby and home. I actually like to iron. I know I am probably the only person left on the planet that does.

I have cooked so much more. I made the Pioneer Woman's Chicken Parmesan last night. It was delicious and I didn't take a picture. I added garlic salt, California style to it. I love that stuff.

I have made three desserts this month for our Wednesday night church small group, including this one from Cottage at the Crossroads. The only thing I did different was to make a regular homemade graham cracker crust.

I am enjoying myself as you can see.

I have been sewing quite a bit. I love to sew. I had to put that on hold for many years, but I am trying to get back into it.

I made the pink dress for a friend. I see every flaw, but it turned out pretty cute.

I made the little shirt for my great nephew. I had made a little skirt for his twin sister earlier. He loved it. I have plans for more sewing for them. They are five and the cutest little things you ever saw. 

Yesterday, I made this little romper for a friend. I need to put the buttons on today. 

In addition to the sewing, I have been counted cross-stitching. I may have picked the hardest pattern ever to start this back up. Oh my word, it is incredibly difficult to see with old eyes.

It will be a heron when finished that measures 20" X 24". I plan to make a pillow out of it, IF I ever finish it.

Still reading the Word with my chronological plan and soaking it up. I should be finished by mid-June. 

And now for the not so good stuff...

Yep, that is my car being towed. I had a dead battery, but it caused my key to stick in the ignition. 

AND, we have to build a new deck on the back. They have come to measure, and I am just trembling with fear about the price quote for that. It hasn't been done in 30 years, so it is time. I am hoping they will get started soon, so we can get out there as the weather warms up.

Well, that is February in a nutshell.

Blessed indeed.

Sandy