Monday Message

"I wish to urge again the importance of self-reliance on the part of every individual Church member and family. None of us knows when a catastrophe might strike. Sickness, injury, unemployment may affect any of us. We have a great welfare program with facilities for such things as grain storage in various areas. It is important that we do this. But the best place to have some food set aside is within our homes, together with a little money in savings. The best welfare program is our own welfare program. Five or six cans of wheat in the home are better than a bushel in the welfare granary." (President Gordon B. Hinckley)

As we now will be turning our attention to the new year, I would rather make a list of things I would like to do, a list to inspire me, not one to make me feel guilty but to make me happy and not sad.

Like on my list will be...to take care of me as well as I do for others, to find time to read more and rest more, break down tasks more, take time to enjoy my interests more, continue to stay safe and realize that my being safe isn't a punishment, the world has changed and I must change as well. Reminding myself my immune system is not like others and to not kick myself because of it. To remember the Spanish Flu went on for years before it was over - this will take time as well. So giving myself some grace, I am doing what I can do. Realizing I cannot attend church physically at this time but I do attend virtually, while this feels somehow less it really isn't as it is a huge blessing given to me by my Father in Heaven and this blessing is more not less. I still keep up my scripture reading and journal keeping, I am thankful for my blessings. I feel loved.

I have fibromyalgia and I need to slow my pace down.  It has been a year of big projects. I think now perhaps it is time for no more of those for a while.

We are heading into the roughest part of winter in my neck of the woods. So I think I will do more hygge type things...

https://iowacity.momcollective.com/2018/01/05/hygge-list-15-ways-embrace-cozy-winter/

I would do more hot cocoa with sugar free flavorings with mini marshmallows.

https://almosttheweekend.com/how-to-enjoy-winter-even-if-you-hate-it/ - good ideas.

https://almosttheweekend.com/being-kind-to-yourself-in-january-and-february/

It is here that I wanted to mention, check on people this time of year as it is so very very hard on people. I know we cannot visit in person but email is a good way. Don't wait to have someone say they are having a hard time because they won't, you have to be proactive.

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/coronavirus/acts-kindness-during-coronavirus-outbreak - there is a list of ideas to scroll down.

https://www.cosmopolitan.com/lifestyle/a32598922/ways-to-cheer-someone-up/ - pick and choose.

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200317-covid-19-how-to-stay-happy-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak - some ideas here.

https://siliconvalley.salvationarmy.org/silicon_valley/news/17-ways-to-strengthen-friendships-during-the-pandemic/

https://simpleonpurpose.ca/simple-hygge-autumn-list/ - take what ideas you wish.

www.freereadfeed.com I mention this a lot but having a free source for books is very helpful.

I want to learn new skills and break those down into bite size pieces.

I want to work on some warm projects, for example - https://www.fleecefun.com/basic-hat-adult-child-and-baby-pattern-and-tutorial/

Here is the free pattern - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oXYhMYqy1_4

https://www.allfreeknitting.com/Knit-Shawls/Poppy-Knit-Triangle-Shawl-From-Yarnspirations - this would be a very easy project to learn on.

With the higher prices I think now is a good time to learn more frugal ways of doing things.

https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/meal-planning-guide/ - good helps here.

Find frugal and easy meals - https://moneysavingmom.com/lunchbox-freezer-cooking-bean-cheese-burritos-day-1/#_a5y_p=909256.

https://www.nogettingoffthistrain.com/recipes/cheap-healthy-meal-ideas/ - basic and simple.

https://www.nogettingoffthistrain.com/recipes/20-more-5-dollar-dinners/

https://www.nogettingoffthistrain.com/recipes/5-dollar-dinners-2/

The more we can find frugal meals the further our money will stretch.

https://www.nogettingoffthistrain.com/frugal/how-i-stick-to-a-60-a-week-grocery-budget-

Missy says it is important to stay the course and be safe.

Gus says be sure to eat your veggies and get lots of rest.