Happy February, friend!
After reading The New York Times article about why January is the best month, I’ve developed a new appreciation for the quieter pace of winter.
In the past I’d been in a hurry to get through the winter months in anticipation of spring, but lately I’ve been enjoying these cozy, relaxed days.
I kept some of the white twinkly lights on the mantel after Christmas, and we’ve been lighting candles every evening to bring some extra light into our home.
Last weekend we met my parents at the Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster, CO. It was the perfect place to escape on a winter day: warm, humid, surrounded by tropical plants, with plenty of room to experience the wonder of beautiful butterflies all around us.
Speaking of escapes, do you have something to look forward to in the months ahead?
According to research, we get as much pleasure from anticipating a vacation as we do taking the actual trip. That’s why it can be so much fun to write a Look Forward list. Have you written yours yet?
In this month’s newsletter, we’ve got easy recipes that are perfect for February, simple living tips, and a fun craft project made with a surprising upcycled resource.
Will you leave a comment below about what’s on your Look Forward list? I would love to hear about your fun plans, or anything else you want to share.
Until next month,
Eliza Cross
Mini Strawberry Cheesecakes for Your Favorite Valentine
Have you noticed how people seem to love mini desserts? I might be too full to eat a whole dessert after dinner, but I can always make room for a diminutive treat (or several!)
Can you relate? If so, you’ll love this easy recipe for Mini Strawberry Cheesecakes. Check out our shortcut tip and use whole Nilla Vanilla wafers for the crust!
The Amazing Bliss of Leaving Earlier + 5 Benefits
Do you frequently find yourself running late, rushing, or feeling stressed when going to an appointment or event?
Building in 10 extra minutes to your schedule could be the most amazing gift you give yourself. Read more, and if you try it this month I’d love to hear from you!
New Recipe: Southwest Chicken Chili
We’ve got weekend snow in the forecast here in Colorado, perfect timing to fill the crock pot with this Southwest Chicken Chili and let it slow cook all day. This recipe is super easy to make, and you can customize it to fit your tastebuds.
Make Art from Toilet Paper Tubes!
Believe it or not, this pretty natural heart decoration is made from toilet paper tubes. This project is one of our most popular pins on Pinterest, and you can make any design you like once you have the simple technique down.
Here’s how to make your own heart wall decoration.
More Simple Living Ideas on Pinterest
I’d love to connect with you over at Pinterest, where we have dozens of boards with thousands of easy recipes and simple ideas to make your life easier!
Your Exclusive Invitation: Join the Simple Life, Happy Home Group
This special private Facebook group “Simple Life, Happy Home” is for members to share favorite recipes, gardening tips, simple living ideas, money saving strategies, pretty photos, pets, and more.
Request your membership and I’ll make sure you’re approved quickly.
About Eliza Cross
Eliza Cross is the author of 17 books, including Small Bites and 101 Things To Do With Bacon. She shares ideas to simplify cooking, gardening, time and money. She is also the owner of Cross Media, Inc. and founder of the BENSA Bacon Lovers Society.
I love your little respite from Winter right in your backyard (sort of), and I love the idea of a Look Forward to List. I fully believe in that theory; there is as much fun in anticipation as in the actual event or experience. On my look-forward-to list is a retreat with dear friends, staying at the Broadmoor with my hubby while he works a trade show, our oldest graduating, and God-willing going to Europe this summer. And I am so making that soup this weekend!!
You have some really great things to look forward to this year! Thank you so much for your sweet comments, and I hope you have a cozy weekend. ~Eliza
Every single Happy Simple Living teaches, reminds inspires me or makes me happy (tp tube art?!)
Taking the time to appreciate simple living is so precious to me, comforts me and slows me down a bit.
Thank you, Eliza. You are wise and wonderful
Gail, your kind words brought a tear to my eye. Thank you for leaving such a wonderful comment, my friend. I feel like you are especially good at slowing down and savoring the moments. Hugs, ~Eliza