#MIchigan #Meditation

 Time spent in nature is an opportunity to rejuvenate the soul.

Try a moment of Michigan Meditation.

My state of Michigan is known for nature. I was blessed to have worked for the Department of Natural Resources for a time. Every day I walked the 81 acres of marshland I was charged with and started the day with peace, wonder and beauty.

Yesterday was the first day of bow hunting season and hunters took to the woods, including my flyboy. Like many hunters, he didn't see a deer but simply enjoyed being in nature. Curious squirrels teased him while he sat enjoying the sounds and smells of the woods. 

You don't have to be a hunter to enjoy Michigan Meditation, or even be in the state. Find a spot outdoors, on your porch, in a park; and take a moment to listen, look and smell. Feel the peace.

Thursday Thirteen - 13 "Love Surprises"

Little things mean alot. 

I'm sure you've heard that before... but it's true. 

Simple things such as a smile can brighten one's day. 

My flyboy hubby is gone often so I enjoy hiding things in his suitcase.  When my mom was alive, living in an apartment, I'd have fun leaving goodies in her fridge or on her dresser for her to find. When Football Moms were allowed to decorate the boys' locker room, we'd leave encouraging notes and candy on our sons' locker doors. I enjoy leaving a cute little card on my secretary's keyboard.

Here's a list of some items for you to leave in often over looked places for your honey or someone special to find.

For your honey:
1. Handcuffs.

2. A sexy photo of yourself.

3. A pair of panties scented with a favorite fragrance.

4. Favorite candy. Sweet for a sweetie.

5. A key (to your heart).

6. A love poem.

7. A love letter.

8. Love coupons.

For someone special:
9. A greeting or inspirational card.

10. A photo of the two of you in a cute frame.

11. A small book. (Inspirational, poetry, romance, comedy)

12. Favorite CD.

13 Favorite magazine. (Magnolia, Taste of Home, Oprah are my favs to give to a gal or a hunting magazine for a guy)

Other items may include Hersey kisses, a teddy bear, jewelry, a list of why that person is special to you, small artwork, and a small bottle of their favorite fragrance.

What other items can you think of?

Special Thanks to Cary Ann's Hallmark in Flushing, MI

for keeping me well stocked in "little things."

Check out more fun Thursday 13 lists HERE

Lunch With Love

Nothing is sexier than a man who cooks, except for the food. 

Hubby grilled some chicken breasts for me to use as my work lunches.

Deliciously seasoned breasts served on a bed of mixed greens, dried cranberries and shredded parmesan cheese...yum!

I'd rather have a glass of white wine, but water with a slice of lemon will make to do.

#SoulFood Morning

 Soul Food. Yes, it truly is good for the soul. Comfort. Family.

I've been on a Southern Dish kick lately and my poor family is enjoying the new recipes they are tasting. Today was a simple but hearty breakfast Grandma would have been proud of.

Grits slow cooked on the stove. I added half & half for a creamy texture then tossed in a bit of shredded cheddar. (Here's a simple grits recipe.)

While the grits simmered, I used up some leftover roasted veggies to make an omelet. Gram's logic of bacon fat makes everything better, I placed a dollop of bacon fat in small cast iron pan before adding the veggies & eggs. The fat browned nicely, adding a smoky flavor.

For serving, I scooped some of the cheesy grits into a bowl. Chopped up the omelet and placed it on top of the grits. 

Oh, yeah!

I left for work with a happy feeling deep in my soul. Thanks, Gram!

#TeaTime - Breathe Easy

 I keep a variety of teas at work. Today's #TeaTime is Breathe Easy.

My asthma is acting up and I'm busy typing letters so I grabbed a favorite "feel good tea".

This floral tea has a minty start with a licorice ending. It relaxes me, soothes an upset tummy from coughing and eases my throat.

I love the #TeaTag tells me to SMILE today.