THESE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

The rain, wind and dark days can get to you 

(even if you are like me and really don't mind them).

This past weekend we had a cluster of those days back to back,

and I spent most of my time at home enjoying every bit.

Why?

It sounds silly, but I surround myself with things that make

Winter cozy and a little less dreary.

These are a few of my favorite things..

Favorite Warm-Up: Earl Grey Tea

My favorite brand is Stash. Their Double Bergamot
Earl Grey is mild and perfectly calming.

Favorite Movie: The Holiday
I'm not joking when I say I have probably watched this
ten times in the past month. I have it on while I'm cooking or doing 
stuff around the house and I just love everything about it.

Favorite Throw: Soft Heat Micro fleece Electric Throw

My mom bought this for me years ago and I 

rarely go an evening without cranking up the temp

and snuggling down. (I even use it in the summer!)

Favorite Author: Jen Lancaster

I must admit that I find very little time to sit down and read,

but when I do this is just one of my favorite authors. 

I tend to stay with lighthearted reads and gravitate 

to authors who have a flair for humor.

Jen Lancaster is hysterical and I can't wait 

for her upcoming release shown below!

Favorite Soundtrack: The Holiday

One of my Christmas presents from Keith and the kids this year

was this soundtrack. I love having music on when I am rearranging

and straightening up the house. This soundtrack was a must while I took down all 

of the Christmas decorations. 

(I finally got it all packed away yesterday!)

Favorite Slow Cooker Recipe: Potato Chowder

I use my slow cooker throughout the year, but more so in the Winter.

This is comfort food and not something I make too often (it definitely NOT figure friendly!), but it is a family favorite for sure! My daughter

is a vegetarian, so I make the base of the soup and have small bowls

of bacon, chives and cheddar cheese so everyone can add what they want.

Potato Chowder 

8 Cups diced potatoes

1/3 Cup chopped onion

3 (14.5 oz) cans chicken broth

1 (10 ¾ oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup

¼ teaspoon pepper

1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, diced (I find if it is room temperature it

blends better)

½ lb. sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled (I use a whole package of bacon ~

bad I know, but soooo good)

Snipped chives




In a slow cooker, combine the first five ingredients. Cover and cook on low

8 to 10 hours, or until potatoes are tender. Add cream cheese and stir

until blended. Garnish with bacon and chives.

 

 Recipe Credit: Bonnie Ellis (Thank you! XOXO)












Favorite Magazine: Country Living

I look forward to each new issue and can always find a ton of inspiration! 

That being said,

I wish I could get my hands on a subscription to 



the British edition. I was lucky enough 

to inherit a friend's 



very large British collection from years past (years and years worth!) 



and they are lovely!















Favorite Pastime: Painting Furniture

Even during the Winter months, I enjoy painting. There is something about seeing a piece of old outdated furniture come to life with something as simple as a coat of paint. 













Favorite Luxury: Lollia Foaming Bath

Loading furniture in and out of the car, rearranging it to fit it all in at Faded...it

can leave a girl in need of a long soak in a hot bath. My favorite bubble bath is by Lollia.

I hide it from everyone in the family because it's a luxury and treat (for me)!












Favorite Lounge wear: PJ Salvage

On most days, I live in tattered sweats and paint-splattered clothing.


However, I love a cozy pair of pajamas just like any other girl. 



I coveted these for weeks and when i had a great stretch of sales, 



I treated myself.


An early Valentine's Day 'from' hubby perhaps? 

They are so cozy! 

You can find them at 

Faded Elegance!














Favorite Snuggle-Buddy: Barley (aka Bar-man)

This is our 8-year-old Pomeranian. He is my buddy and follows

me around the house when he isn't 'guarding' the house via the back of

the couch that sits up against our living room window. I have neighbors

come up and say they get a kick out of him barking like a mad dog when

they walk by the house. Regardless of his neurotic behavior, he is the best snuggler!

So, grab your dog or cat and make give them some TLC...they will love you for it!



 



So, when the Winter weather is bringing you down, try giving

any of my favorite things a try to brighten your mood.

I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!

Cheers!