A "Pooh" Kind of Hodgepodge

It's Hodgepodge time! And, it's all about Pooh and his friends today............

1. On January 18th we commemorate A.A. Milne's birthday. Milne is the author of the beloved classic Winnie the Pooh. In many ways Pooh represents innocence and simplicity. His optimism reminds us to appreciate the little things. What are three little things you're appreciating in mid-January? 

Getting office files cleaned out for new year

Looking forward to twinkle lights coming on each evening in our living area. Really!

The start of a new Bible Study next week on prayer.

Yes, it truly is the little things............

2. Piglet teaches us even the smallest of individuals can achieve big things with the proper amount of determination. How do your current responsibilities make you feel? 

Most of the time I have a good handle on them. And, I might add that, at this stage in my life, my responsibilities are certainly not what they once were.  And, for that, I am thankful.  I do oversee the care of my 94 year old Dad who lives in an assisted living facility nearby.  There have been times when that responsibility has been heavy, but, for the most part, it goes smoothly.  I've been overseeing his care for 13 years so I've gotten really good at it. 

3. Tigger is known for his enthusiasm and energy, his boundless joy and love of life. What's something you're interested in learning more about in this new year? 

I can't think of anything big, but am always interested in learning or hearing about a new cleaning hack, organizational hack or cooking hack.  Anything that makes life easier without compromise, I'm all about it.  

4. Eeyore, while a melancholy character, teaches us the importance of resilience and perseverance. How do you stay motivated and persevere in difficult circumstances?

I've always been very determined (just ask Hubby) and when things get difficult I've just learned to "bow up and get it."  I look at it as what choice do I have but to meet it head on.  As to what motivates me, I'm not sure, I think it is just my nature.

5. What's the last thing you ate that was made with honey? 

I made a recipe of Patio Beans during Christmas and it calls for a tad of honey.  Honey is not something that I use much but I always have it on hand, just in case.  

6. Insert your own random thought here.

In case you haven't heard, we here in NE Louisiana were hit with a winter storm this past Sunday.  So, we were  basically  housebound two days and looks like we may "break free" by this afternoon.  Goodness, it is NOT a favorite feeling for me but I've made good use of the time.  I've baked cookies and more cookies, I've done more cleaning out and organizing and prepared for our new Bible Study starting a week from today.  AND, the beautiful amaryllis shown above has been such a bright spot while stuck inside.  I don't know who came out with the waxed amaryllis but they were a genius for sure.  There is absolutely no work involved, just sit it out and watch it "do its thing."  I gave several of these as gifts and got this one for myself.  It was very, very slow coming out and I was a bit concerned that I might have gotten a dud.  I got it on Dec. 1st and assumed it might be in full bloom by the 25th.  Well, it wasn't but, oh, my goodness, it is in full array this week and it's one of the prettiest I've ever had or ever seen. And, it still has 3 more blooms almost ready to open.  I placed it inside this greenery candle ring and think it was a lovely addition to its beauty. It's been such a bright spot during these cloudy wintery days.