Everyday Wonders

 

Embracing Life's Little Joys: A Celebration of Everyday Wonders

We live in a fast-paced, often chaotic world. It is easy to overlook the simple pleasures that surround it. For example, we rush from one task to another, consumed with deadlines, commitments, and tasks from our to-do list. But when we take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect, we unlock incredible wonders waiting for acknowledgment in the ordinary moments of our lives. This realization brings a sense of joy and inspiration. It uplifts our spirits. It reminds us of the beauty in the everyday. 

As I  sip hot coffee, the warmth from the fireplace or the touch of Wally, my furry border collie, transforms my outlook. Before getting up, I imagine this -- waking up with the aroma of freshly made coffee in the air. That first sip (as it warms my wrinkled, cold hands and taste buds) is more than just a caffeine fix. It's a ritual. It signals the start of a new day filled with possibilities. I cultivate a deep gratitude when I notice these mini rituals; I can change how I  perceive our world. Instead of "Thank God, It's Friday," my heart mumbles, "Thank God for another promising day."

Moreover, embracing these small joys teaches me to slow down. I see beauty in the mundane, whether it's enjoying relocating decor around the house or decluttering, listening to the water filter in the aquarium, or listening to music. Each experience offers a chance to connect more deeply with myself and my environment. By regularly acknowledging these moments, I can weave a positive narrative. I can shift my attention from what's missing to what's already there.

Rediscovering Gratitude: The Transformative Power of Mindful Practices

Practicing gratitude becomes a powerful lifeline in challenging times, anchoring us in hope and resilience. This post delves into mindful practices that foster a grateful heart. Journaling is one. (I restarted in 2025). Meditation and yoga are second and third. Each practice serves as a gentle reminder to celebrate the beauty in our lives. They help us navigate uncertainty with grace, instilling a sense of hope and resilience in our hearts.

Journaling, for example, is a great way to express gratitude. By setting aside five minutes daily to reflect on what I am thankful for, I create a tangible record of positivity that I can return to during more challenging times. As I write about my day's highlights—no matter how small—I train my mind to focus on abundance rather than scarcity. My adult daughter has been doing this, too. How wonderful it is to have common ways to destress.

Meditation, on the other hand, encourages me to cultivate mindfulness. Through breathwork and focusing on the moment, I learn to appreciate the simplicity of just breathing. This practice profoundly affects my mental wellbeing. This practice fully allows me to experience gratitude. Digital distractions fade, allowing me to reconnect with my inner self and world. No gadget is needed, just myself.

Yoga complements these practices beautifully. It emphasizes physical health and emotional wellbeing. The subtle movements and stretches remind me of the incredible noises our bodies can create. Engaging in yoga fosters a sense of belonging within myself. It leads to an alignment between mind, body, and spirit. It leaves me with a grounded feeling of thankfulness for my health and capabilities. I am no yogi. But I have a mat with yoga poses, with their names under each pictured pose. I follow them carefully in three or more poses each session.

In embracing these mindful practices, I empower myself to build a lasting foundation of gratitude beyond fleeting moments of appreciation. By weaving these elements into the fabric of my daily life, I nurture resilience and a sustained sense of joy.

Unearthing Hidden Gems: The Thrill of Thrift Store Treasures

Thrift stores and virtual marketplaces often go unnoticed and unappreciated. Yet they are bursting with potential and history, waiting to be discovered. The thrill of thrifting lies in the unique finds and the experience of a new world filled with unexpected treasures, each waiting to be repurposed. This sense of adventure and excitement adds a new dimension to our lives. It helps us appreciate the joy of discovery and the potential in the unexpected.

The thrill of thrifting lies in the unique finds and the experience—stepping into a new world filled with unexpected treasures, each waiting to be repurposed. Thrifting is also an exercise in creativity and sustainability. It challenges us to think outside the box. Repurposing items that might otherwise be discarded makes us think artistically. Later, I'll share tips on bringing new life into thrifted finds. Whether through easy DIY projects, upcycling, or simply incorporating them into our decor. Each successful hunt satisfies a craving for something new to me. This hobby contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle. It is a means to decorate our homes without the guilt of consumerism. I have purchased some tropical-looking furniture lately that needs varnishing, polishing, and cleaning. They all shine again! In a world often obsessed with fast fashion and perfection, thrifting invites us to embrace imperfection and uniqueness. Thrifting in style proves that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. We don't all have to follow the Jones family and always buy brand new.

Finding Sanctuary at Home: Discovering Comfort in Life's Simple Pleasures  

Home is our sanctuary, where I can find comfort and recharge our spirits. I explore ways to enhance my home environment, transforming it into a haven of relaxation and solace. I am continuously decluttering and donating stuff to Vietnam Veterans of America twice a month. I have to be careful now of repurchasing items I donated in the past. :) I have done this before with books.

Imagine curling up by the fireplace with a good book. The flickering flames cast a warm glow around the room. Creating cozy spaces invites tranquility into my life. It reminds me that comfort can be as simple as a pillow on the floor by the fireplace and a lovely book.

Lighting plays an essential role in creating an atmosphere. Soft, ambient lighting can turn an ordinary room into a tranquil retreat. I learned that low, warm light from lamps is kinder to the eyes and soul, giving the feeling of a cozy home, unlike the white lights in offices and libraries. 

Finding sanctuary also extends to my senses. Adding personal touches—like photographs, (lots of) plants, and art that resonates with us—encourages a strong sense of belonging. Each item tells a story of who we are and where we've been, weaving the narrative of my life into my surroundings. Do you fill your spaces with memories that uplift you and foster joy? 

Finally, let's not forget the beauty of rituals. Whether it's an evening short Netflix reruns with family or quiet moments of reflection at the end of the day, small and large rituals create a rich texture of comfort and familiarity. By the way, the beauty of rituals is not to be confused with my new small business promoting "beauty rituals." But if you are wondering what I have been busy with from 2024 to this new year, check out Revitalized Med Spa. :)

The Magic of Gratitude: How Thankfulness Can Illuminate Our Journey to Wellness

Gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion. It's a powerful tool that can significantly impact our mental and physical health. Research shows that people who regularly practice these themes are bound to find inspiration and a renewed sense of connection, whether to the world around them, their homes, or their journeys of gratitude. Let's celebrate life's joys together. Let us create a shared narrative that uplifts us all. 

Thank you, all, for keeping the TTOT Grateful blog hop alive. "Long time, no read." I am back! If you are not a blogger-participant yet in this fun group, check it out. Just reading their blogs will put a smile on your face. "I guarantee it!"

A Grateful Update: Grandkids, Gardens, and Giggles!

 

Fake, Fake, Japanese Container Pond

A Grateful Update: Grandkids, Gardens, and Giggles!

Hey there, fantastic TTOT team! It's time for another dose of gratitude and giggles from tmy simple life. Seriously, folks, my grandkids are like mini comedians on steroids, my garden is growing like weeds :)and my husband... well, let's just say he's still just so funny he does not have to say much.

1. Grandkids - The Little Geniuses of Giggles: I swear, my grandkids are on a mission to make every day of their lives I can manage to borrow seem like a laugh-a-thon. They have these ideas of acting or overacting and make the most mundane task of going to the carwash like a horror comedic movie. I couldn't be more grateful for the constant stream of belly laughs.

2. Garden Adventures - Weeds, Wisdom, and Wonder: Oh, the garden. It's like a wild kingdom where the plants have a secret society. My tomatoes are bearing fruits. Is the kind that is big and pretty, the heirloom kind. Tomorrow we can get 3 fewer tomatoes from the farmer's market because of our bountiful harvest this week. But in all seriousness, tending to my garden has taught me more about patience and persistence than any life coach ever could. It's a wild ride of ups and downs, and I'm taking every minute of it as a success (especially when I triumph over those pesky weeds)!

3. Husband's Hilarious Humor - The Husband Joke Extraordinaire: Ah, my dear husband. He's like a one-man comedy show that never ends. His jokes, eye-rolling, and Miley-Cirus-tongue-showing in pictures are funny from the day I forced him to watch Barbie with me to when he finally agreed to go.

5. Barbie Movie. It was funny.

6. The Maturing Youngs - Daughters, Sons, and Furry Friends: Our kids are growing up faster than weeds in my garden, and it's a beautiful thing to witness. The way they handle life's challenges with grace and humor is nothing short of awe-inspiring. They've turned into these incredible beings who are navigating the adult world while still finding time to send us hilarious pet videos. The two girls are successful in taking care of numerous houseplants. Not too long ago, they could not pick up a broom.

So, there you have it – a snapshot of the hilariously gratifying moments that make up our simple life.

Amazon Finds (Try Search Bar if unable to see product)

I Found Them on 

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Rain, Rain

A video of my little home garden

As I type pondering all the things I am thankful for, a few things come to mind that might surprise you. First, I am thankful for the rain. Not because it's good for the environment or helps crops grow, but because it waters my perennial garden so I don't have to. Let's be real, who has a lot of time for that?

Secondly, I am thankful for the therapy provided by my plants. They don't talk back or judge me, and they always seem to know just what I need. Whether it's a pop of color from lilies, columbine, and daisies through the window or the sight of a new bud on my mini rose bush, my plants are always there to lift my spirits year after year. 

Speaking of things that lift my spirits, I am also incredibly thankful for good enough health. I don't have to be a surfer, marathon runner, or hula dancer to enjoy life, and that's something I am truly grateful for.

But let's be real, I'm not doing all of this on my own. I am also thankful for the housekeeping help I have at home. Without her, my house would be a disaster and my plants would be drowning in a sea of clutter.

And lastly, I am thankful for my husband who mowed the lawn on Father's Day. Sure, he had other more fun things to do but it's the little things that count, right? Plus, it means I don't have to worry about it for at least another week.

So there you have it, friends. A few of the things I am thankful for. What are you thankful for? Do you have a blog? Join the TTOT group below.

Heart ❤️ Healthy Food

 

Heart (Mind and Lung) Healthy Gratitude List

What am I grateful for? Let me cite and list.

1. Food I like and can afford: seafood, greens, oats, quinoa.
2. Learning to slightly brown quinoa to make it yummy before adding water when cooking. Yes, I just learned, this way I like quinoa. Can you say "keen-uhWAH?"
3. The ease of cooking quinoa. Guess what? It is easier than cooking rice and more nutritious and protein-rich.  
4. Youtube search for the ease of researching videos for entertainment and learning  It also stores silly videos I make  
5. My daughter helps me remove dead leaves from indoor plants. She also watered them.  I call her my family assistant as I pay her for coming over when she helps with chores. She makes my heart happy.
6. Life and a chance to make a difference and spread kindness. What’ve I I want loved ones to remember me by  I am no Irene Cara who can sing Fame and even her who in her song “wanna live forever” didn’t.  Each day, my chance renews to make good of myself and help others. Today is the day  
7. A breath of fresh air, however cold in Colorado. If you live in the Northeast, maybe wear a ski mask first. Sorry, Bostonians.
8. Football to entertain us in the cold weather, and watching in the comfort of our home by the fireplace.
9. Picking greens indoors.  Kale, anyone? 

Lettuce Grow Farmstand Hydroponics

Can I say, farming and football? :)

10. And last but not the least, TTOT, inspires me to think how lucky I am to have at least ten things to be thankful for.

Skillet in use: Le Creuset 

Enameled Cast Iron Signature Square Skillet 

Grill, 10.25", Cerise

Looking Back Last Month and Beyond

I revisited this blog after many months of abandonment. Somebody had to check it. It is still here. I had been occupied with work, family, and volunteer nursing activities. In my little free time, I admit, I tried and did escape to the tropics. I am thankful for that that because back home in beautiful Colorado, the red rocks had been covered with snow. It has been a cold, white winter. There is beauty in it, somehow. Cold, simple, and pure.

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My stevia plant died after I have not watered it enough for many days too often. I have the backup, no-care-needed sweetener in a herb-like container. It does the job to sweeten my drink.

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I had been drinking more hot drinks lately. More, I mean twice a day. This cappuccino from home is as good as some famous coffee shops. Paul and I invested in a small frother and cappuccino for home.

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I have been cooking more at home, as both my husband's and my blood pressure were higher than we want. We are lessening our sodium intake. Here I added some kale to our breakfast. It is delicious--husband approved. I was trying to stretch our last few eggs here :).

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I added some meat and vegetable from a simple, ready-to-cook (heat-up) dinner. The kit has enough sauce and flavor in it that the whole dish is still very flavorful. Another quick, easy, and somewhat healthy meal I was able to cook after a long day of hospital work. The cooked chicken added is a real-time saver too.

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To celebrate Chinese New Year, I thought we should have something red. The husband suggested lobster. It is a special occasion so we splurged a little. I added some corn. 

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Here he is enjoying our dinner. 

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Farmstand from Lettuce Grow

This hydroponic planter does not disappoint. It gives me greens all year long for almost three years now. 

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I changed the template, fonts, color, and some images of this blog. Most links from previous years are still here. Come to think of it, I still use many of the same things and recommend them. 

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I reviewed the about page. It reminded me of why I started this blog. This is a therapy blog for me. I hope I can inspire others, and in a few ways, teach others what not to do, maybe :). 

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Do not be lazy, Carin. 
Make time for journaling, blogging, or writing.
Let yourself be surrounded by positive people.

 

Summer is in the Air

It's June! I haven't fully experience spring yet and it's almost summer. Where did the spring go?

It is still here, I guess. I am between what to plant outdoors? Spring plants or Summer plants in relation to the best season to plant them. Oh, well, maybe both. At least, the probability of frost may be over. It is usually by Memorial day in Colorado.

I have many reasons to be thankful aside from the nice weather suitable for planting. It is also a good season to hike. Look at my two-year-old grandson. He is a natural hiker. He just loves exploring the outdoors, perhaps more than my son, his dad, wants. He would pick up anything interesting in his eyes. Bugs? Dandelion? To me, as long as he does not try to taste them, is OK. :)

My son caught a fish after trying so many times. Simple fun.

My daughter playing "hair" with a Fuschia headpiece my niece, gave us something to smile about.

I am planting again. My outdoor tower planter is full of tomatoes both from store brought starters and seeds I sowed. The flowers in pots is from the store for the instant garden while I am waiting for the seeds I planted to grow all around the backyard.

Simple pleasures. Candies to my eyes. Even my husband likes them.

Have a pleasant week.

Comfort

I harvested some greens from my indoor hydroponic planter. The greens can't get fresher than these, harvested right from my dining room. They are perfect with the Costco-size beef and pork. 

I cooked six dishes. Most left-overs will be frozen for later like after-work dinner when most times, we are too exhausted to cook.

I am grateful for the memory of cooking comfort I remembered from childhood in the Philippines--peanut stew, adobo, pork chops seasoned with lemon pepper, and sour soup. 

I am grateful for the recipes readily available from the internet, the oven, instapot, and air fryer. I was able to cook 6 dishes in 2 hours, preparation time included. You'd think I was in a cooking contest under time-pressure. Only the judges (my family) are more forgiving and very appreciative of my cooking.

I am grateful for the simple things I get to enjoy with my family--walking outdoors, however cold, before the snow hit--picture taking, and watching TV together.

I am even thankful for a friend and a co-nurse who is finally resting after two-month hospitalization from COVID. She must be in heaven.

Until next time.