Tag Archives: simple joys

Gather & Grace | Simple Pleasures: Books, Budgeting Tips, and a Cozy Home Routine

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There’s something special about embracing the rhythm of simple joys—books that inspire, small routines that bring comfort, and little luxuries that make everyday life feel a bit more special. This week, I’m gathering moments of grace that have added beauty, warmth, and a touch of sweetness to my days.

To Read & Enjoy

For Learning & Growth

For Pleasure & Escape

On-Screen Cozy Mysteries
For a comforting mystery on screen, Father Brown and Miss Marple on Acorn or BritBox are always a recommendation—suspenseful yet charming, without anything dark or disturbing.

A Simple Recipe for Busy Moms

Creamy Tuscan Chicken (with leftovers)

This one-pan meal is rich, flavorful, and perfect for meal prepping.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 ½ cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked (about six to seven minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add cherry tomatoes and cook until softened.
  3. Stir in the spinach, letting it wilt, then pour in the cream and Parmesan. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
  4. Return the chicken to the pan, coating it in the creamy sauce. Let it warm through, then serve over rice or pasta.

Leftover Tip: Save extra sauce separately to toss with fresh pasta or use as a base for a quick soup the next day.

An Iced Coffee Treat

Simple Iced Coffee Recipe

Lately, I’ve been loving this easy afternoon iced coffee. It’s smooth, refreshing, and just sweet enough.

How I Make It

  • Leftover coffee from the morning, poured into a glass
  • One tablespoon pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
  • A splash of heavy whipping cream—or whip the cream lightly for a delicious foam topping

A simple joy that makes an ordinary afternoon feel like a treat.

Budgeting & Financial Grace

Cash Envelopes & Sinking Funds – Yay or Nay?

I’ve been thinking more about budgeting intentionally, and sinking funds have been a game-changer—setting aside small amounts ahead of time for things like gifts, car maintenance, or even fun experiences (because joy matters, too).

Cash envelopes? I love the idea for mindful spending, but I also appreciate digital tracking. Maybe a mix of both is the sweet spot.

Are you team cash envelope, or do you prefer a different budgeting method?

At-Home Manicure Love

A Little Self-Care Ritual

I’ve always loved a fresh manicure, but lately, I’ve found so much joy in doing my nails at home. It’s a simple ritual that feels both relaxing and rewarding.

Current Favorites

  • Londontown – Strengthening formula with beautiful shades
  • Olive & June – Easy application and a long-lasting topcoat
  • Manucurist – A clean, non-toxic brand with gorgeous colors

A fresh manicure, whether at home or in the salon, is such a small thing, but it truly lifts the spirit.

Home & Life Simplified

Little Touches That Bring Joy

To Reflect & Journal

  • How can I bring more beauty into my daily routines?
  • What’s one small way I can simplify my spending while still enjoying life?

As we step into the weekend, may we find grace in simplicity, joy in small luxuries, and peace in the routines that make life feel like home.

Joy & Blessings,

Jenny

Gather & Grace | A Season of Thoughtful Living

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Soft petals, rich color, and the quiet reminder that beauty is always blooming around us.

March has a way of inviting us into quiet reflection—encouraging a shift toward what truly serves us. This week, I’ve been drawn to simplifying, savoring, and choosing with intention. From rediscovering pieces I already own to embracing a new way of reading, I’ve been reminded that sometimes, the best things are already within reach.

Here’s what I’m loving, learning, and gathering grace from this week.

Reading in a New Way—But Still the Same Love for Books

I have always loved the feel of an actual book in my hands—the weight of the pages, the comfort of a well-loved spine, the way a book lives with you as you move through its story. But recently, I bought my very first Kindle Paperwhite, and to my surprise, I’m really enjoying it.

It tucks easily into my bag, making it perfect for reading a few pages during lunch at work or taking along when I travel. I love how I can highlight passages without hesitation, carry an entire library with me, and never worry about running out of something to read. While I’ll never stop loving real books, I’m finding that this small shift in how I read has only deepened my love for stories.

A Book for Growth: Your Best Year Ever by Michael Hyatt

This book is a guide to setting goals with purpose and creating a life that reflects what truly matters. It’s a reminder that change isn’t about drastic overhauls but about small, intentional steps forward. I’ve been reading a little each day, and it’s already shifting my mindset.
Find it here →

A Book for Pleasure: Counting Miracles by Nicholas Sparks

Some books feel like home, and Nicholas Sparks has a way of weaving tender, heartfelt stories that stay with you. This one is a beautiful, emotional read—perfect for cozy evenings or a quiet morning with coffee.
Check it out here →

A Beloved Magazine for Cozy Moments

Alongside my books, I’ve been indulging in the latest issue of My French Country Home. There’s something special about flipping through pages filled with timeless interiors, soft florals, and slow, intentional living. It’s an invitation to savor beauty—not in a grand, unreachable way, but in the quiet, everyday details. If you love classic European charm, warm kitchens, and dreamy countryside escapes, this magazine is a treasure.
Discover the latest issue →

A Capsule Wardrobe Made from What I Already Own

For years, I was someone who bought new clothes each season—chasing trends, adding more, and rarely considering what I truly needed. But now, I’m focusing on a different approach: working with what I already own.

Instead of buying, I’m curating—pulling out the timeless pieces I already love, finding new ways to style them, and appreciating the beauty of simplicity.

Some of the staples I’m reaching for:

  • A well-fitted white button-down – classic and effortless.
  • A neutral blazer – versatile and refined.
  • A pair of dark-wash jeans – never out of style.
  • A soft sweater in a neutral tone – cozy yet polished.
  • A structured tote bag – practical and elegant.

I’m learning that less is more when every piece is chosen with care. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your closet but still felt like you had nothing to wear, try this: shop your own wardrobe. You might be surprised at what you rediscover.

Get Your Free Guide Here

A Shampoo and Conditioner That’s Nourishing My Hair

As I let my hair grow out, I’ve realized it needs more love than it once did. More moisture, more nourishment, and more thoughtful care. I’ve been using a new shampoo and conditioner free of harsh chemicals, and it’s made all the difference. My hair feels softer, healthier, and refreshed—a small but meaningful change.

Welcoming a Houseplant into My Home

Meet Fiona, my small Fiddle Leaf Fig. There’s something about bringing a plant into your space that makes it feel more alive—more settled, more peaceful. Watching Finn stretch toward the light is a simple reminder that growth takes time, but it always finds its way.

If you’re thinking about adding a little greenery to your home, a snake plant, pothos, or ZZ plant are all wonderful, low-maintenance options.

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A Slow Cooker Meal That Feels Like Comfort

Some meals make life simpler. This Mississippi Pot Roast (or its chicken version) is rich, savory, and practically effortless. Even my picky-eating daughter (who usually prefers chicken nuggets and pizza!) loves it.

Mississippi Pot Roast (or Chicken!)

  • 1 chuck roast (or 3-4 chicken breasts for a lighter option)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning
  • 1 packet au jus mix
  • ½ stick butter
  • 5-6 pepperoncini peppers

Instructions:

  1. Place the meat in the slow cooker.
  2. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus mix evenly over the top.
  3. Add the butter and pepperoncini peppers.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours (or high for 4 hours).
  5. Shred the meat, serve over mashed potatoes or rice, and enjoy every bite.

The best part? It fills the house with the most inviting aroma, making dinner feel special even on the busiest days.

A Thought to Carry Into the Weekend

Whether it’s choosing to be more intentional with what we own, shifting how we approach reading, or simply savoring the small joys of a slow meal, everything flourishes with care. I hope this week brings you moments of grace, renewal, and simple beauty in unexpected places.

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn

That’s all for this week’s Gather & Grace—a celebration of thoughtful living, curated style, and small, meaningful joys. I’d love to hear what’s inspiring you this week—what you’re reading, simplifying, or savoring.

Blessings & Joy,
Jenny

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An Intentional Pause Beneath the Sky: Savoring Life’s Simple Joys

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A quiet moment, a gentle sway, and the soft whispers of nature—sometimes, peace is found in the simplest places.

Somewhere between the rush of the morning and the quiet settling of evening, I find a moment that is just mine. Not a grand gesture, not an escape—just a small, peaceful pause.

Lately, it’s been this: stepping outside, sinking into the swing by the pool, and letting the air wrap around me like a familiar comfort. The gentle sway, the sounds of birds in the trees, the soft rustling of the breeze—nature’s quiet conversation unfolding around me.

There’s something about these moments beneath the open sky that resets me. The simple act of slowing down, of listening—really listening—to the world moving at its own unhurried pace. The way the sunlight flickers across the water, how the wind carries the scent of something faintly sweet, the grounding presence of the earth beneath my feet.

These small luxuries—these quiet moments of peace—remind me that stillness is a gift. It doesn’t ask for anything in return. It simply invites me to be.

I think we often overlook the beauty in these everyday pauses. But when I pay attention, I realize they are everywhere—in the warmth of my coffee mug in the morning, the hush of dusk settling in, the feeling of soft grass beneath bare feet.

Peace isn’t always found in the extraordinary. Sometimes, it’s in the way the wind stirs the trees, the warmth of the sun on my skin, the steady back-and-forth of the swing beneath me.

Maybe today is a good day to notice the simple joys waiting for you.

What is one quiet moment you savor in your day?

Blessings & Joy, 

Jenny

The Beauty of Handwritten Words: Notes, Letters, and Prayers

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There is something sacred about putting pen to paper. In a world of quick texts and fleeting emails, handwritten words linger. They hold weight.

Whether it’s a simple note to a friend, a heartfelt letter, a journal entry filled with thoughts, or a quiet prayer written in faith—writing by hand is more than just ink on paper. It’s a way of slowing down, of making moments tangible, of leaving a piece of ourselves behind.

I’ve written by hand for as long as I can remember. Not everything I write is profound or meant for anyone else’s eyes. Some words are just for me. Some are for the people I love. And some are whispered prayers to the One who listens.

Journaling: A Space for Thoughts, Prayers, and Everything In Between

My journal isn’t neat or structured in a perfect way. It’s a collection of thoughts, reflections, and quiet prayers. Some days, I pour my heart onto the page. Other days, I jot down a simple note on an index card and tuck it between the pages. I keep loose sheets of paper filled with passing thoughts, reminders, and scripture verses that spoke to me in a moment.

Writing by hand slows my thoughts, brings clarity, and helps me process emotions. Some pages hold gratitude. Others hold frustration, hope, longing. And in between the scribbles, there is always something sacred about putting my emotions into words.

Handwritten Notes: Small Gestures That Mean the Most

A handwritten note is a small but powerful act of love. It’s different from a text or an email—it’s something we hold in our hands, something that lingers long after it’s been read. A simple “thinking of you” scribbled on a notecard can bring comfort in ways we don’t always realize.

I keep old letters and notes tucked away, and whenever I reread them, it’s like stepping back into a moment. There’s something timeless about ink on paper—about the way someone’s handwriting feels like a piece of them, like a thread connecting us across time.

There’s also joy in writing them—especially when using beautiful stationery or personalized notecards. The texture of fine paper, the soft flow of a favorite pen, even the color of ink can make the act of writing feel even more meaningful. Having lovely notecards or a set of personalized stationery makes it easy to send a heartfelt message, a reminder that someone is cherished.

Writing Prayers: A Quiet Conversation with God

Prayer doesn’t always have to be spoken. Some of the deepest prayers I’ve ever prayed have been written. When my heart is too heavy or my thoughts too scattered, writing my prayers helps me focus. Seeing the words on the page makes them feel tangible—an offering I can hold in my hands before lifting them up.

I write prayers for myself. I write prayers for others. Some I keep in my journal, folded between the pages. Some I write on notecards and slip into books, tucking them away like small blessings.

And sometimes, I write prayers for the people I love—especially when they can’t find the words themselves.

How to Bring More Handwritten Words Into Your Life

If writing by hand speaks to you, here are some simple ways to weave it into your days:

1. Keep a Daily Journal

You don’t need to write a full-page entry every day. Even a few lines—a reflection, a quote, a gratitude list—can create a beautiful practice of slowing down and connecting with yourself.

2. Write Notes to Loved Ones

  • Leave a sticky note on a mirror for a family member.
  • Send a short letter to a friend just because.
  • Mail a handwritten birthday or thank-you card instead of a text.

3. Start a Prayer Journal

  • Write your prayers instead of just saying them.
  • Keep a list of people you’re praying for and add to it regularly.
  • Write a short prayer on an index card and carry it with you.

4. Become a Pen Pal

I’ve had pen pals before, and there’s something special about receiving a letter in the mail—knowing someone took the time to sit down and write just for you. If you’ve never had a pen pal, it’s a beautiful way to build connections through the written word.

Consider writing to:

  • A friend who lives far away.
  • A family member who would love a surprise letter.
  • Someone going through a tough time who could use encouragement.

5. Choose Stationery That Brings You Joy

Having beautiful paper, notecards, or even a personalized stationery set can make writing feel more special. It adds a layer of intention, making even the simplest note feel like a meaningful gift. Keep a set of notecards nearby so it’s easy to send a quick hello, a thank-you, or a word of encouragement.

6. Tuck Notes Into Unexpected Places

  • Leave a note of encouragement inside a book for the next reader to find.
  • Write a scripture or kind message and slip it into someone’s lunchbox, Bible, or purse.
  • Keep a small stack of notecards ready to jot down something meaningful and give it to someone when they least expect it.

A Gentle Invitation: Bring Back the Beauty of Handwritten Words

In a world where everything moves fast, I want to slow down. I want to write more letters, more notes. I want to continue journaling, writing prayers, filling pages with thoughts that may never be seen by anyone else but still matter.

Maybe today, you pick up a pen and write something down. A note to a friend. A letter to yourself. A prayer that’s been resting on your heart.

Handwritten words have a way of lasting. They have a way of carrying love.

And maybe, just maybe, it’s time we bring them back.

In Love & Gratitude,

Jenny

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!

Do you still write by hand? What’s your favorite way to connect through handwritten words? Let’s chat in the comments!

The Slow and Sweet Start of Saturday Mornings

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“A slow morning, a warm cup, and a little bit of luck to start the day. The best way to begin a Saturday.”

There’s something about a Saturday morning that feels different from the rest of the week. The rush of early alarms, packed schedules, and structured routines fades into the background. Instead, there’s space—gentle, unhurried space—to move at a pace that feels nourishing rather than necessary. I hold onto these mornings, protecting them from plans and obligations whenever I can.

The first light filters softly through the curtains, the world still quiet except for the birds beginning their morning song. I pour my coffee, rich and warm, and settle in—pillows behind my back, soft sheets cocooning me, book or journal in hand. For a little while, there is no to-do list, no urgency, just the simple joy of a slow beginning.

Embracing the Unhurried Moments

Weekday mornings follow a rhythm of necessity—wake, walk the dogs, get ready, start the day. There’s comfort in routine, but Saturdays allow for something different: a slower, more intentional start. These mornings feel like a gentle inhale before the fullness of the weekend unfolds.

It’s in these moments that I find stillness. A sip of coffee that lingers rather than rushes. A few lines in my journal, capturing fleeting thoughts. A stretch in bed before the world calls me to move. These small rituals are my way of pressing pause, of making room for presence before the day truly begins.

The Beauty of a Slow Start

There is something deeply restful about allowing the morning to unfold naturally. No rushing out the door, no immediate demands—just time to savor, reflect, and ease into the day. In a world that often celebrates productivity over presence, choosing slowness feels like a quiet act of self-care.

Maybe for you, a slow morning looks different. A walk in the cool morning air. A chapter of a book you’ve been meaning to read. A quiet moment with a steaming cup of something warm. However it takes shape, these little pauses remind us that life isn’t just about moving forward—it’s about being present, too.

Savoring the Stillness

As the weekend unfolds, the pace may quicken, but the intention of a slow morning lingers. There is beauty in beginning the day with slowness, in making space for simple joys before the demands of life set in. A slow Saturday morning is a gentle reminder: we are allowed to pause, to savor, to just be.

Do you carve out time for slow mornings? What simple moments bring you peace at the start of your day?

Thank you for being here,

Jenny