I’m so excited to be linking up again with Leigh Kramer who does these wonderful round-ups called “What I’m Into” every month.
I hope every one had a Happy Thanksgiving! And speaking of thanksgiving, this month, I have been focusing on gratitude and appreciating the day-to-day experiences of my life.
- One of my favorite haunts on the web, Modern Mrs. Darcy (I mention her a lot don’t I?), posted an article about the Norwegians and winter. Read it here. Since I suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder and dread the winter time, I am using the article’s content to help myself have an enjoyable Winter 2015/2016. Turns out it’s all about your attitude/mindset. Go figure, huh?
- And speaking of mindset, every November, I try to focus especially on the present things for which I am grateful. I highlighted a few this year here.
- I took a number of 5-mile walks this month in preparation for the Bridgestreet Half Marathon this April. The pic is from one of those beautiful walks. I am sure the walks are helping me stay sane. Gotta get my steps in!
- Doubling up recipes and freezing the extra is definitely keeping me sane this month. Chili, minestrone soup, potpie filling, homemade pizza crust, cornbread, and BBQ sauce all in my deep freezer in the garage. Sanity savers!
- Roma! This is a grain beverage, made with roasted malt barley with a touch of chicory and it doesn’t taste half bad. It’s the taste of coffee without the caffeine. And while I try to avoid caffeine as a general rule, while nursing Buddy Man, caffeine has been a strict no-no! Also, this is another great way to enjoy the cooler temps: warm beverages!
- Discovered a new YouTube channel and show called Dylan’s World, a delightful, refreshing, short, program for kids by kids. Buddy Man loves it! It’s the only show he’s into and thus, I’m into it. You can check it out here. It’s very good.
- Slowed my reading down considerably this month. More about that next Quick Lit.
- Although I didn’t listen to many podcast episodes this month, I did listen to a couple that featured Elizabeth Gilbert. I love the sound of her voice! Her writing is pretty good too. I have been listening to a lot more music recently with one particular album on repeat: Stone Rose by Ola Gjeilo. The music is lyrical piano and a mix between classical, jazz, and a little pop. Great music for introspection; very soothing and relaxing.
- Almost got sucked down the rabbit hole of The Good Wife and old episodes of The Amazing Race on Amazon Prime but I have managed to extricate myself from both of them. Just found out the old episodes of Survivor are available on CBS All Access. Oh boy! And who, along with me, is looking forward to the season 3 of HGTV’s Fixer Upper premiering December 1! Aren’t Chip and Joanna the bestest!?!?!?
What are you into that’s keeping you sane? Perhaps I should try it.
enjoy life…
shannan enjoys life! 
I really wish I could enjoy podcasts!
I totally get that. When I first started listening over a year ago, I didn’t enjoy them either. I believe the trick might be finding the one that speaks to you. And a pleasant speaking voice helps also.
Glad Aunt Mamie led me to your blog. Read them all but my favorite is the post on 9/2/12. You are a talented writer. Working each day to “choose” to be happy. Look forward to reading more. Marilyn
Thanks for reading! And thank you for the complement re: my writing. I look forward to reading your future comments.:)
I’ve never heard of Roma before. Intriguing!
Give it a try; not as strong as coffee but the taste is pretty close. Here’s a link on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1jv3VCu but it’s also available at health food stores.
Thanks for reading!
I also read that post about Norwegian winters. Keeping it in my tool box for the cold dark months ahead. Have you watched the documentary Happy on Netflix? I found it quite interesting and eye opening when it comes to mood and attitude. Great idea with the freezer meals!
I think I did some time ago – I don’t really remember it so that means I need to watch it again. Thanks for the suggestion and thanks for commenting.
I’m interested in Roma too – do you make it yourself? (Visiting from Leigh’s linkup.)
Thank you for visiting Cara. You can get the Roma from Amazon.com or at some health food stores. Here’s a link: http://amzn.to/1jv3VCu
I’ve never heard of Roma – I’ll have to give it a try. I love hot beverages too – they’re definitely one of the best parts of the cold weather.
Yes, try it and let me know what you think. I am always looking for other hot beverage options. Let me know if you have any good ones.
Oh! I want to raid your freezer! All of those dishes sound amazing! And I’m impressed with your five mile walks. I always feel better when I walk but I don’t nearly as much as I should in the Fall and Winter.
Thank you for your comment, Paula! The five mile walks are something that I have been working up to, however, like you I’m also afraid I won’t be able to walk nearly as much this Winter. I hope my Fitbit will help with that though.
Hey Shannan, from your next door neighbor at Leigh’s … pot pie filling sounds like a great idea for these months ahead … thanks for the idea!
Lol. Nice to have you drop by. Yes pot pie filling is awesome to have frozen and ready to go. Going to do another batch this week.