Hello Monday-ers!

How are you?

I’m a little tired today but glad to be here.

This weekend I hosted a Narnia-themed baby shower for a friend in the area. It was so fun to plan and overall went smoothly. We had lion cupcake toppers, snowy garland, and (of course) Turkish delights to set the mood. The goodie bags included this passport to Narnia which I thought was pretty cool.

Sadly, Stephen had to work this weekend. So he didn’t get much of a break. But he did get party leftovers which he enjoyed.

Anyway, let’s begin.

1. Lentil Soup
   The weather here has been absolutely dreary. Super gray and chilly. AKA soup weather. I found this lentil soup which seemed cheap + nutritious and it did not disappoint. I added potatoes so my dear husband who says, “soup isn’t a meal”, would find it more satisfying.
   
2. Joseph Pearce Interview
   I know I’ve talked about Matt Fradd at least once on here before, but he’s just so good. He interviewed author and speaker Joseph Pearce recently and, I have to say, the conversation truly spoke to my heart. Mr. Pearce talked about being an “evangelist of beauty”, or something along those lines. While I hadn’t really thought of it in those terms before, this resonated with me at a deep level. Beauty matters, and has the power to inspire people to love.
   
3. Matches
   Theology of Home came out with these matchboxes and they are lovely. My aunt has matchboxes that she collected at various restaurants over the years framed in her kitchen. I always thought this was such a good idea, except that restaurants don’t really give out matches very much anymore. But this collection makes for a great addition to your living room, especially in these cold winter months.
   
4. Homemade Mocha
   My friend Sarah put me onto this and it’s been an awesome weekday treat (especially on days like today when I just need a little pick-me-up). It’s just mixing some cocoa powder, monk fruit sweetener (or normal sugar if you prefer), and milk of preference (she uses almond/coconut, I use oat milk) into your coffee. Super yum and much better for you than the typical store-bought kind.
   
5. Raphael Painting
   For our one year anniversary (we’ve come so far), Stephen let me pick a painting to buy for our home. I chose The Disputation of the Sacrament, by Raphael. It came in last week and I’m so happy with my decision. After listening more to the history behind it, I find it even more intriguing. I love that art invites us to contemplation. Something our phone-filled lives could definitely use more of.

What’s on your list?

Cheers,

Miranda