Hello and Happy MLK day! I hope everyone had the day off. Or at least acted as if they did.

This weekend was one big mishap as we finally succumbed. Stephen had a slight fever last Sunday but tested negative Monday morning so went to work per usual as commanded by his superiors. We were shocked about the test results and, sure enough, Friday I started feeling poorly and Saturday we took little m to the after hours children’s care where she tested positive. It was rather unfortunate timing as this was the weekend of our niece’s baptism and had traveled to Charleston for that purpose.

We were unable to participate in any of the festivities, although people were kind enough to come stand in the doorway of our place of exile to chat for a little bit. I felt cheated of a weekend home which I had been so looking forward to, but at the very least we still got to see loved ones and they got to see Monica (though was not at her best). We are all feeling better. Of course Monica was the most worrisome but she has thankfully turned a corner.

Drama aside, here are this week’s five things!

1. Hot toddy.

It’s just so yum. And comforting during these short, cold days. I’ve loved making them in the evening, either before or after dinner, and just sitting with the hot mug in between my hands. Cozy and highly recommended.

2. PLANTS.

One of my dear friends here in Florida is sadly moving out of state this week. When we stopped by to say our farewells, she surprised me by asking if I wanted to take any of the plants they had growing in pots in their backyard. I enthusiastically accepted and am now a happy owner of a bell pepper plant and hot pepper plant. So exciting!!! I’m just praying I don’t kill them.

3. Lovely Lady Linens.

This was an incredible find through Theology of Home. What a gem. This company makes quilts, tablecloths, runners, placemats, napkins, and other linens inspired by our Lady. They have, for example, a Fatima pattern, a Stella Maris pattern, a Lady of the Valley pattern…they are each so beautiful and unique.

4. On Becoming Babywise.

Something my mom insisted upon early in the game, was the importance of putting babies on a schedule. Now, I’m not here to start a debate on different parenting styles, but I have to say ‘schedule’ is one of my favorite words in the English language. One thing I’ve learned as I’ve gotten older is that structure=freedom. Lack of boundaries=chaos. At least in my experience. This book helped me put Monica on a schedule. It did not happen immediately, but for the past four weeks or so, I’ve been enjoying the peace of mind that comes from knowing how my day is going to look like and what needs to happen when. It may not work for everyone but I have to say I’m a huge advocate of at least giving it a good try.

5. My husband.

It’s cheesy I know, but I strongly believe I married one of the best guys out there. While we’ve been sick, he has done even more than what he normally does (which is already quite a lot). As we speak he is making dinner so I could write this post. He was up a lot with little m at night as she was not feeling well, and I know he will be very tired going into his 36 hour shift tomorrow. I’m so grateful to have him as my teammate/love of my life.

Here’s to coming up with five more!

Miranda