We have had success from growing trees from seed in the past, so we are hoping this Bonsai Kit gives us the same success.
2. This doggy.
Always around us, always wanting to be close, always the very best friend. He is getting older, but he is doing great for a doggie that turns 18 this year. Lots of love and unconditional support keeps any living thing thriving. A lot of humans could learn from that.
3. These goofballs.
Welcome, Great Pumpkin.
4. This soup.
I made this potato soup this week and it was a definite hit. We ate on it for about three days and it was so warm and comforting, and I am all about comfort foods this time of year.
The pumpkin on Skylar's head is a giant plastic pumpkin. Although we stray away from plastic, mostly single-use plastic, this giant pumpkin we have had for several years now. We use it every year for our main candy and a blue one for alternative, allergy-free candy. There are other options on the market that are great for Halloween season, and here are a few that I have found.
I purchased these Shoyeido frankincense incense this week to burn throughout the house and on the school bus. Frankincense is associated with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and stress-relieving properties. This week has been a bit less stressful, so it definitely came in handy.
2. This guy.
On Monday this week we celebrated Jeff's birthday. He asked for chocolate cupcakes, so chocolate cupcakes is what he received. These cupcakes are made by our local food co-op and paired with the buttercream icing they are delicious! It was a good day for him. Happy birthday, Jeff! We love you!
3. This moment.
Speaking of the local food co-op, we had an issue with our car battery while we were there picking up birthday food for Jeff. The car wouldn't start and we needed a jump. Skylar asked a few people in the parking lot and no one had jumper cables, so he went inside and told one of the workers. The worker immediately said, "Don't worry, I have cables and I will even move my car around the help you out." His name was Kory and we are so grateful to him for helping us get back on the road. Also, a big shoutout to Bodhi at AutoZone for helping Skylar replace the battery.
4. This soap.
We've been trying to turn to more alternative mentions for basic things, like this shave soap. Badger is a great company anyway, but anything we can do to create less waste I'm all for it. We are going to give this shave soap a try and see if it can become part of our routine going forward.
5. This Bath.
Hardy used to hate baths, but he has gotten better over the years at trusting us and letting us wash him up. He still hates it, I'm sure, but at least when it's over he gets treats and love. That part he loves! Him's a good boy!
One last thing:
On Tuesday night (September 17) we got a great view of the Full Harvest Moon. It was also a partial lunar eclipse, as well. We were able to see the moon completely and it was definitely a great full moon that night. The picture on the left is through a cell phone camera, and the picture on the right is through the telescope. Both views did not disappoint.
Positive affirmations this week:
This is such a great addition to mental health coverage, and it's something that has been needed for a long time. One of my hot buttons with politics is having an administration that pushes for better mental health care for everyone in the United States. Having a president in office that takes that seriously and actually makes positive changes, means so much for all of us that suffer with mental health issues and mental illness. With these changes, be sure to talk to someone when you're struggling and reach out when you need to, without worry of having it not covered under insurance, or your state's healthcare providers. You are worth it, and you are brave!
I have been seeing heart shapes around lately. I am not sure why, but I like to think it's a good thing. The universe reminding me that I am loved.
2. This box.
Kiwi Eco Box is always a good subscription to receive. My favorite thing from this month's box, the linen bag.
3. These Crayons.
Nothing is better than a fresh box of Crayons. As a child I loved to open a new box and smell the scent of the Crayons. Now as an adult, I still embrace that smell. It's been awhile since I've been able to find a box of 64 with a built-in sharpener, so finding this made my day.
4. These candles.
Always a good time to burn a nice candle.
5. These flowers.
Getting out in nature is so important for your mental health. One thing that has caused a lot of mental health decline is overuse of social media, and news. Most news now days is bad news. There isn't a lot of good to cling to with that, or with social media. Some of it is avoidable, but some of it isn't. The best way to find that balance within yourself is to take time away from it and get out into nature. Every day of being in nature is best, but even a small amount of time can do a great deal for your wellbeing.
One last thing:
I found these two products this week and at first I didn't think I would use them right away, but of course that didn't happen. I used both all this week and I have to say, no regrets. Jennifer Aniston's Lolavie hair products make my hair feel and smell incredible. Being over the age of 40, this brand is perfect for me. And, we have always been Auromère users in our house, but these soaps smell amazing!
Mallie has been upset that she hasn't had any eggs to lay on, so I decided to get her some ceramic eggs to help her through her slump. She loved that she had something to sit on and it made me happy to see her happier.
2. This heart.
I have been seeing heart shapes in random places each day and I have decided to start capturing these moments to remember when my mental health dips and I need a pick me up. This one was found on a concrete step.
3. This canoe.
Skylar bought a canoe from one of our neighbors this week, and of course, we had to do a dry land practice.
4. This quiet.
I just found out this week that stores, like Walmart, have sensory hours for people with noise sensitivity. I've had noise sensitivity since I was a child, and any loud bangs, or background music or noise always sets off some amount of anxiety. I love that I can plan my day around going shopping during the sensory shopping hours at certain places. I hope more businesses implement these sensory experiences, too.
5. This lightning.
There was a storm that passed through the Willamette Valley this week and the show was a good one. We sat in an area just outside of the city as not to get the city lights in our shots. We weren't the only ones enjoying the lightning show, there were several others out taking a look at the sky. We've always loved weather, but getting a lightning show without rain or wind is one of our top favorite things to watch.
One last thing:
These wooden bowls are now for sale in the shop. They are solid wood and can be used for displays, a catch-all at your door for keys, or even used to make candles. Bowl measures approximately 9x6x2 and can hold 14 to 16 ounces.
Positive affirmations this week:
A sample of how you can start to plan your day and keep track of your mental health as you navigate through your daily schedule. This one is from Habio, but you can create anything that helps you get through your day and know when your mental health issues peek, and to help you build a solid routine to keep you going.
Life at a "Swell's" pace is a lifestyle and travel blog chronicling the life and travels while living in Oregon's beautiful Willamette Valley. It is mostly written by Shelly HW. Click the image to learn more»
*Disclaimer: If you do make a purchase from the links on this blog, I could earn a small commission. Thank you for supporting me and my family through this little space.
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