We have had success from growing trees from seed in the past, so we are hoping this Bonsai Kit gives us the same success.
2. This doggy.
Always around us, always wanting to be close, always the very best friend. He is getting older, but he is doing great for a doggie that turns 18 this year. Lots of love and unconditional support keeps any living thing thriving. A lot of humans could learn from that.
3. These goofballs.
Welcome, Great Pumpkin.
4. This soup.
I made this potato soup this week and it was a definite hit. We ate on it for about three days and it was so warm and comforting, and I am all about comfort foods this time of year.
The pumpkin on Skylar's head is a giant plastic pumpkin. Although we stray away from plastic, mostly single-use plastic, this giant pumpkin we have had for several years now. We use it every year for our main candy and a blue one for alternative, allergy-free candy. There are other options on the market that are great for Halloween season, and here are a few that I have found.
I attended welcome day this week with Skylar at Linn Benton Community College. It was raining off and on throughout the day, but we had a great time. He got to meet a lot of his peer counselors, the dean of the school, and assistant dean, a few of the heads of departments, and he learned who his advisor would be for the first term. Linn Benton Community College had first time students go on a scavenger hunt and I was allowed to do the scavenger hunt with Skylar. We got to see the renovated courtyard, too. It is absolutely beautiful. It looks a lot cleaner and more cohesive since I attended LBCC. The day was a great day and I love being part of Skylar's journey through his college years. I am excited for Skylar to start his college experience here.
I purchased these Shoyeido frankincense incense this week to burn throughout the house and on the school bus. Frankincense is associated with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and stress-relieving properties. This week has been a bit less stressful, so it definitely came in handy.
2. This guy.
On Monday this week we celebrated Jeff's birthday. He asked for chocolate cupcakes, so chocolate cupcakes is what he received. These cupcakes are made by our local food co-op and paired with the buttercream icing they are delicious! It was a good day for him. Happy birthday, Jeff! We love you!
3. This moment.
Speaking of the local food co-op, we had an issue with our car battery while we were there picking up birthday food for Jeff. The car wouldn't start and we needed a jump. Skylar asked a few people in the parking lot and no one had jumper cables, so he went inside and told one of the workers. The worker immediately said, "Don't worry, I have cables and I will even move my car around the help you out." His name was Kory and we are so grateful to him for helping us get back on the road. Also, a big shoutout to Bodhi at AutoZone for helping Skylar replace the battery.
4. This soap.
We've been trying to turn to more alternative mentions for basic things, like this shave soap. Badger is a great company anyway, but anything we can do to create less waste I'm all for it. We are going to give this shave soap a try and see if it can become part of our routine going forward.
5. This Bath.
Hardy used to hate baths, but he has gotten better over the years at trusting us and letting us wash him up. He still hates it, I'm sure, but at least when it's over he gets treats and love. That part he loves! Him's a good boy!
One last thing:
On Tuesday night (September 17) we got a great view of the Full Harvest Moon. It was also a partial lunar eclipse, as well. We were able to see the moon completely and it was definitely a great full moon that night. The picture on the left is through a cell phone camera, and the picture on the right is through the telescope. Both views did not disappoint.
Positive affirmations this week:
This is such a great addition to mental health coverage, and it's something that has been needed for a long time. One of my hot buttons with politics is having an administration that pushes for better mental health care for everyone in the United States. Having a president in office that takes that seriously and actually makes positive changes, means so much for all of us that suffer with mental health issues and mental illness. With these changes, be sure to talk to someone when you're struggling and reach out when you need to, without worry of having it not covered under insurance, or your state's healthcare providers. You are worth it, and you are brave!
Life at a "Swell's" pace is a lifestyle and travel blog chronicling the life and travels while living in Oregon's beautiful Willamette Valley. It is mostly written by Shelly HW. Click the image to learn more»
*Disclaimer: If you do make a purchase from the links on this blog, I could earn a small commission. Thank you for supporting me and my family through this little space.