In a world where children are increasingly overstimulated, the calm presence of a grandmother can be a soothing balm. Whether it’s through quiet story times, gentle lullabies, or simply sitting together in contented silence, grandmothers help children learn the value of stillness and reflection.… Read More The Enduring Legacy of Grandmothers: Nurturing Love, Wisdom, and Faith
When you use essential oils to make your space smell nice, you’re not just making it smell good – you’re also creating a space full of happy memories.… Read More Emotional Memories: The Smell of Home through Diffusing
Visitors have called this space at the river intimate and cozy, while for now, we call it our personal escape. Small pleasures are hidden here, such as the redbird that visits our porch, or the rabbits that hop in the yard. … Read More Waterfront Living in our Summer Home
Each summer morning this time of year, I rush out in the morning with my mug of coffee to see what herbs and/or vegetables are ready for harvesting. I spend about an hour and a half out in my gardens after my husband leaves for work at 8:30 am. Sprinkled throughout my garden beds are small vignettes of various whimsy, and I chuckle to myself as I work. … Read More Of Toads and Herbs…
Kind mothers of babes allow me to care for their little ones now and then to cure my blues for another child. It is healthy, really…… Read More Baby in the House (again)
One night a father overheard his son pray:
“Dear God, Make me the kind of man my Daddy is.”… Read More Weave a Cloth that Feels Like Love
Visitors to our backyard play paradise were daily… from neighborhood kids to church friends. We had many a play date in the early years with food, swimming, games and fun. The backyard certainly was the place to BASH… Read More End of the Backyard Bash
At Blue Willow Cottage, Christmas isn’t just a holiday—it’s a year-round pursuit of wonder, warmth, and meaningful memories. Through monthly planning days, a trusty red Christmas Notebook, and joyful moments like baking with little hands in the kitchen, we prepare to shine the light of love all December long. Let every act of kindness become a thread in the tapestry of a truly magical season.… Read More Creating Christmas Magic All Year Long at Blue Willow Cottage
There are dozens of things to do during this down time in Quarantine! Be Creative! Be that fun mom who lets the kids get dirty and make things! … Read More Boredom To Delight: The Troll Village
Meditations and prayers as I prepare for a luncheon to honor the Elders’ wives from our church… Read More December Thoughts and Wishes
Blue Willow 