October’s weather log includes a lot of rain so far. I’m not keeping track on paper, but I suppose I am keeping track of how often I feel pleased over my purchase of rainboots earlier this month ;). This is the pair I bought. Also in support of the number of October rainy days: I am no longer surprised when I walk under an eavestrough and a large drop of water hits my scalp (though it remains an uncomfortable feeling of wetness).
As is usual for me, I think of this memory-keeping space often. By the end of the day my mind is in need of rest, though naturally, I’m thinking ahead to what tomorrow may bring. After nearly a decade of mothering, I continually lean into this: at the end of the day, my work is never done. If our home is to be the source of our Kingdom work, then I need to expect our home to be full, messy, dirty, and loud. Basically, lived in. Ughh. This can be difficult for me as I’m easily overloaded with noise and visual clutter. (Time to shed my dragon skin!)
I am on an itty-bitty break from grad school. The class I most recently finished was my hardest to date. My professor kept reminding me to “tighten up” my systematic theology wording. “More clarity! Get right to the point [with my theology writing]! When your writing is succinct, there is less room for theological error.” Of course, he’s right. But also: of course he’s right! Though difficult, I really enjoyed the class.
I have intentionally spent more time in my kitchen this month. Do you think it’s due to all the rain that’s fallen? (Yes.) On the menu is wild rice soup with chicken (+ coconut milk, yum) and seasoned warm dinner rolls. Almond-flour biscuits baked in the oven. Homemade apple crisp. Chili with a double batch of cornbread. Stuffed peppers (minus the rice) with parmesan roasted brussel sprouts. More dinner rolls and biscuits ;) Sheet pan pork chops, roasted vegetables, and caesar salad. Multiple local visits to enjoy the delight of apple cider and donuts.
Anywhere I drive around town, whether to the dentist or the kids’ gymnastics class, to drop something off or to meet with friends, the views of northern Michigan are spectacular. Even as I look for winter coats or search to find a hot cup of coffee, beauty finds me.
A blanket of autumn leaves. Gold, maroon, tan, burnt almond. Dark raspberry, citrine, plant-lady green, and a tinge of pumpkin orange. There are so many beautiful colors to notice in the field behind our house, right beside our house. I hear the tree tops sway while the wind whips by.
October has brought with it two weekly Bible studies hosted here, a slurry of dinner guests, and a new meaning to, “kiddos, it’s time for RECESS!”
Totally switching topics (again!): I’ve finally tested out Olive & June nail polish, and my expert opinion on their polish and kits is as follows:
WOW, this is absolutely genius! I love everything about the kit: the manicure application tips, the tools for “the perfect manicure,” and I for sure love glossy nail polish colors.
If trying a kit for yourself sounds like fun, here is a referral code that offers you 20% off your order (and earns me free nail polish). I’ve been painting my nails for 30 years (that is a hilarious fact, LOL), so I feel I can really say “this kit is absolutely genius.”
I think I will sign off now. The sound of the clock ticking on my nightstand is reminding me to sleep…
May your weekend be full of rest in Jesus and plenty of good food.
xx, Maggie
I loved this seasonal post, the dinner ideas, and the Olive and June plug! I think I may just have to pick me up some :) It seems to save so much money on salon trips! Plus I’ve always loved your colorful nails featured in your photos!
Truly, I’m very impressed! Nail polish is so so fun IMO :)
What a beautiful life! I am interested in what Bible study is pictured!
I absolutely loved this study. It’s called Gospel-centered motherhood by The Daily Grace Co. Here’s a link: https://thedailygraceco.com/?smile_referral_code=raU4mPlV&st_intent=st%3Areferrals%3Acustomer-offers%3AraU4mPlV&utm_campaign=smileio_referrals&utm_medium=referral_url
Loved reading this Maggie. It was the perfect touch of encouragement combined with simple reminders of gratitude for the beauty God has interwoven in this season and in our everyday mothering.
Thank you, Katherine! Gratitude and beauty, those two words remind me of this well-known statement:
“Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” Or, preferably both ;)