Farewell to Summer, Hello Routine!
... new episode, homemaking tip, and some encouragement
Hello sweet mama,
Last August as we were preparing to move into our home, I dreamed of making a bouquet for the Theotokos during each day of the Dormition Fast. They would be filled with zinnia, cosmos, sunflowers, and other flowers I’d grow on our new property.
This summer, I made one — and it didn’t have one flower from a plant a grew myself.
This is just an image of how very different my summer was than I had envisioned. Some things did go as planned. Others, not so much. (Why am I surprised?!?)
I share all about our summer in my latest episode! You can listen or read it.
Helpful Homemaker Tip
I recently learned about the delay start on washing machines. It blew my mind! It’s probably mostly on new washers, but check and see if yours has it.
Since learning about this, I have been setting up my laundry in the evening to be done washing around the time I’m prepping breakfast so I can just switch it right into the dryer! (But, it hasn’t been sitting in the washer wet all night.) It’s been a game changer!
Recommendations
This week’s recommendations are things I mentioned in my episode:
Remember the Days Reflection Journal (now on sale!)
The Innkeeper of Ivy Hill — First book in the book series I mentioned
While this summer wasn’t the most challenging season of life, it did have its hard and tiring weeks. I reminds me of past — and harder — seasons when I didn’t know how I’d get through. However, with each season God was with me and helped me, and in the end I was stronger because of what I went through. When we take our struggles to Christ, He will help us and change the challenges into growth and healing.
I pray God is with you in whatever summer is leaving you with and autumn is bringing.
A plant timer, which sets a clock for the time of day that plant lights could be turned on and off, could be a cheaper option for those of us with ancient washing machines. Just a thought for the dinosaurs! I just don't know how often they come with three prongs. I do see one on Amazon for $10
I have noticed that mamas who are on a budget are often in trauma and will not think of how to pivot on something like, " I can't buy a brand new machine, God doesn't want me to have a routine I can handle..." So, I am hoping to spread hope.