Books, Favorite Things, Garden, Life, Soul Homework

adding beauty

Kari

i recently started reading this fun little book:

i ended up buying the book after christmas because it’s one of those books that is nearly impossible to borrow from the library (at least for me) because i like to read it slowly and absorb everything it has to offer.

this book is full of wonderful ideas. so, in addition to my soul homework, i try to read a page or two every morning.

eventually, i started highlighting entries that i really liked.

one morning, i came across this entry:

list ten things you can do to add beauty to your life that costs little or no money

i thought it was a nice little idea for a blog post during one of the less appealing times of year. at least in the colder regions of the world.

here is what i came up with:

1- trim any branches in the yard that need trimming, especially around windows, and put them in a vase.

2- plant a seed packet garden in the spring. plan it now so i have something to look forward to.

i know it’s hard to believe, but we’re only four months away from that up there.

3- a bag of zinnia seeds sprinkled all over the yard costs only 7.99.

4- go for a daily walk, regardless of the weather (i have to be nudged into doing this, but i never regret it afterwards.)

5- clean up indoor spaces

that’s from our house in 2022. i could post a more recent picture, but i’m too lazy to get up and take it. you get the idea.

6- create an indoor “greenhouse” with plants

7- mood lighting is everything

8- buy yourself a bouquet of flowers. and keep up on caring for them so they can last for weeks.

9- buy a window bird feeder

10- natural light is also everything. i allow lots of natural light (and nature) into our home, not just for myself and my family, but also for our pets. 🖤

yes indeed

what would your answers be?

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63 thoughts on “adding beauty”

  1. I love this post! And all the ideas you’ve shared for free ways to add beauty to our lives. One of my big favorites this time of year is to light candles with dinner. If you live near an Ikea, they have very inexpensive white candles. (Falls under your “mood lighting is everything.” It really is.) Some other ideas:  Library books. (I think books are beautiful.) Hang an article of clothing you love the look of on a closet door/doorknob. Have fika (a Swedish custom I love) with some pretty cookies on a pretty plate or with your favorite mug for coffee/tea. Open your curtains/blinds, especially during the time of day the sun is in front of the windows they cover. 

    Thinking about this just made me feel good.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I love these ideas! I love the Swedish way of life. I swear I was a Swede in another lifetime.

      I love how thinking about it made you feel good. All of these comments have been such a pleasure to read this week. ❤️

      Like

    2. I love all of these! As someone who’s moved to Sweden a couple years ago, big windows are one of my favourite things, and with those, usually come an infinite amount of lovely candles!

      And library books, yes to all of them 🌸

      Liked by 1 person

  2. These are wonderful ideas! Honestly, less than an hour ago I thought to myself, ‘oh good, it’s the beginning of the week, Kari will probably post something.’ And sure enough, here it is. I love letting in more natural light, flowers and plants everywhere , walks are good but I struggle w that – unless I’m in Italy. I’ll have to check out that book. Thank you!🙏 ❤️ Great way to start my week.🥰

    Liked by 1 person

  4. Kari, you read like I do, particularly informational or instructional type books. I prefer to digest a little bit each day. I tend to retain things better that way.

    Btw, I also make dog ear bookmarks on pages. It use to drive my mother crazy because she saw it as though I was distroying the book. LOL! I like to use a yellow highlighter as well to highlight certain points in the book.

    Love your list of adding beauty to your life.

    Two of mine would be:

    1) adding scent (aromatherapy) to my home environment. I have a diffuser I like to use throughout the week to diffuse various essential oils.

    2) this one is more about adding beauty to the world. I like to find something about people that I can compliment them about – whether it be something about their physical appearence or something I admire about their character.

    FUN and interesting post, my friend. Happy Monday! X

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I have another little book by the same author. She writes a lot of fun books like this.

      I love how we both dog-ear and highlight books! We’re just giving the book some love. I’ll remember you tomorrow morning when I do it again. 😘

      Yes, to adding scent! I do the exact same thing with my diffuser!

      I knew you were a compliment giver! I just said this to someone else in the comments, and as I was writing it, I immediately thought of you. Ella is like this, too! 

      Thank you, friend! Happy Wednesday! 😘

      Like

  5. I love this. My suggestions are more for folks with limited mobility or energy (“spoons”) so dunno if they will appeal but…

    Spend 5 mins, 10 mins being free of worry. Give yourself permission to drop it. Replace the worry with love. Look at what is around you right now. The people, the animals, the objects, the photographs, the view through the window. Let the goodness of now soak into you with a loving heart.

    Let your cat or dog teach you a new game. Games I’ve been taught by my cats: follow cat, carry cat & stop to look at stuff, blink slowly with cat, sigh deeply with cat & stretch your toesies, wiggle a stick under a paper bag or blanket while cat attacks it, toss the toy into the paper bag while cat goes nuts.

    Call someone you love and talk about happy childhood memories – like your favorite place to go sledding, camping trips, music class, etc.

    Close your eyes and imagine walking through a place that recalls a happy memory – your childhood home, your grandparent’s house, your favorite garden, a beloved trip. What were the smells? Wet earth? Boxwood? Coffee? Avon skin so soft? What were the sounds? The wind moving through the trees? Chickadees? The ocean surf? Your feet crunching on gravel? What did you feel? Your grandma’s big soft hug? Your horse’s soft velvet nose? What did you see? The sharp northern light? The moving shadows of leaf silhouettes on the forest floor?

    Watch a Kitten Cam – I like an LA rescue kitten cam but I’m sure there are tons. No ads. No subscriptions. 100% wholesome.

    Check out your favorite childhood books and reread them or look at the illustrations. Many can be checked out online. Google the authors and see if they have online presence. One of my favs was Wesley Dennis. Seeing his sketches is everything.

    Look thru old photos, print them and put them on your fridge or where you’ll see them. Photocopy old illustrations or pictures of places you’ve loved and place them where you can see them. Rotate the pictures regularly so that you get a “new” view.

    Take a virtual “walk” (using online maps) thru old neighborhoods or stomping grounds with your friends and family. Can you find places they remember? Old biking paths, the neighborhood park or library? Their best friend’s house? The small club with the best music shows?

    ❤️

    Liked by 3 people

    1. These are perfect.

      I love the idea of being worry-free. I’m currently struggling with this. I might even set a timer. Man, I had no idea how much I needed to read this.

      Yes, let your cat or dog teach a game! This is just excellent life advice. I have learned a lot from my pets over the years.

      My brother was here last week, and he, my parents, Mike, and I were discussing something very simple, but it caused us to reminisce, and we were transported back to that place. It felt so good to be back there instead of here. So good.

      I LOVE THE VIRTUAL WALK IDEA. I just uploaded Google Earth yesterday! I’m doing this with my mom and dad today! My dad is from NJ and hasn’t been back since the 70s. They will love THISSSS. Maddie, you are such a gift. ❤️

      Like

  7. This looks like the perfect little uplifting book! I’m going to put it on my book wishlist.

    Last week right before I got Covid, I was at Trader Joe’s and bought a bouquet of flowers. I had them in a white pitcher on the kitchen table and a couple of days ago I noticed they were looking a little wilty. So I took them out of the pitcher and trimmed them and cut off the wet leaves and dead stuff, and divided them up into two bouquets – a new one for the kitchen and now one for the living room. I usually get two weeks from the TJ’s flowers, so a good deal for $6.99.

    Speaking of walks, I am finally feeling back to my “normal” self now and the sun is shining and I just finished my breakfast, so time to head out for a walk. Like you, it’s hard to get motivated to do so, but once I’m done, I’m always glad I did so.

    xoxo

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I think you would enjoy this one! Someone mentioned in the comments the difference between a walk and a stroll…this is an excellent strolling book. I enjoy taking my time with it.

      I love TJ’s flower section. So affordable and they have such pretty selections. I love how you were able to make yours last and double it!

      I’m so glad you’re feeling better and can get out and about. 😘❤️

      Liked by 1 person

  8. Daily walks, yes! There’s so much to see and listen to on walks, no matter where they take place.

    I love that book! I might need to get a copy for myself!

    I am trying to think of more things to add beauty but I have been on hold with WestJet for…24 minutes now and all I can hear is their tinny hold music interspersed with really loud information about WestJet AND I JUST NEED TO TALK TO A HUMAN PERSON FOR A MINUTE. There’s probably a lesson here!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. YES! Mike and I decided to start picking up trash in our neighborhood while going for walks. I need a goal to stay motivated. 🤣

      This kind of book is right up your alley, Nicole.

      LOL- I feel you. No worries. 😘❤️

      Like

  9. ‘Let people enjoy life in their own ways’ – OMG, that is FANTASTIC! As simple as it sounds, it can still be hard to do!

    I enjoyed reading your list. I do love buying a bouquet and seeing how long I can make it last. My kitchen window above the sink is like a mini greenhouse where I grow succulents, rosemary, an orchid, and a few random plants. Two of them are flowering plants that my husband bought me for Valentine’s Day last year. I’m hoping they will eventually flower again.

    I like cleaning out closets in the winter. It’s so nice to have them organized again. However, it’s very difficult for me to take winter walks if it’s not at least 40 degrees. I just can’t do it!

    Some things I’d add to the list of beauty: decorate for each holiday, even if it’s dollar store stuff/go window shopping at an indoor mall (they are a dying breed)/wear more rings (I gained a lot from my mom’s and I’m getting a lot of joy wearing multiple 4-6 rings everyday).

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Isn’t that great?

      OMG, I love those kinds of kitchen windows. I have always wanted something like that! I love that you have one! I hope that your flowering plants bloom again. Let’s use our manifestation power to make that happen. 😊.

      Yes to cleaning out the closets! The feeling afterwards is extremely rewarding. I feel you on your winter walks. I can’t do it either. Which is why I bought myself an indoor walking pad. 🤣

      I love walking in an indoor mall too. Those are all lovely ideas. 💕

      Like

  10. I too always have fresh flowers in the house and in the yard. I would add: get outside for a few minutes every day and absorb the light ~ it’s an instant mood elevator. Call someone you love just to say hi. Compliment a stranger when the opportunity permits. Smile. Make time for your favorite rituals every day. Such a great post, I’ll check out your book suggestion, looks uplifting. Hugs, C

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I usually have fresh flowers in our house in the spring and summer, but not in the winter, and I’m wondering why?? Lol. This will change starting this week. ❤️

      Yes, to complimenting! I do this all the time, and so does my youngest daughter. She will go out of her way to compliment someone on their outfit or hairstyle. I love that. By the way, I have a hunch that you are the type of person who goes out of their way to compliment someone. 😘

      Make time for rituals. YESSSSS.

      I’m happy that you enjoyed this post. I think you will like the book. 💕

      Liked by 1 person

  11. ten things to add beauty to your day–
    1. declutter/clean
    2. smile
    3. make your bed
    4. go for a walk and enjoy the sounds/sights
    5. light a candle at sunset
    6. say I LOVE YOU to your loved ones
    7. tell someone why you appreciate them!
    8. paint your nails
    9. laugh!
    10. tape a smiley face to your spouse’s steering wheel :)

    Liked by 1 person

  12. I just got some colorful flowers for our table yesterday and I know they’ll last a good week or two if I keep giving them fresh water each day! That is such a mood booster. For me, creating art/cards/scrapbooks is another great way and since I have so many supplies already on hand none of them cost me much money (now!).

    Liked by 1 person

  15. I thought I replied, but I guess the internet ate my comment! 😂 Your list is wonderful, and your photos are gorgeous! It’s a good exercise to list ways to add beauty to your world.
    I love going for walks, but even more, I love going for a stroll. Slowly meandering, taking in the sights and smells and sounds. I love having a tidy desk and a tidy sewing room. It makes me happy to put everything back in place after finishing a project. And I feel that a nap always makes the world seem more beautiful!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Most likely, WordPress ate your comment. Gah.

      Strolling! YES! Even better.
      Tidying up feels so good afterwards, doesn’t it?
      A nap makes a huge difference! Your answers are very creative! I love this. 😘

      Like

  17. This book is awesome. It inspires such a positive lift. There are so many gems on each and every page. Wow. Proof that Karma is not just a cat. ;)

    Cleaning up the house is such a boost. If only it lasted more than a few minutes over here in tot/teen land. Ha. Our house gets lots of natural light and I love it.

    My list would include:

    Baking – it makes the house smell great and it puts my gluten eaters in such a happy mood.

    Calling a friend and chatting while I fold laundry or do other mundane tasks.

    Listening to my rosary podcast. This always lifts my spirits and I always find a message that connects with whatever I’m dealing with in my life.

    Thanks for sharing these ideas and this book. I love thinking about how spring will be here in a matter of weeks. Hooray!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. LOL I saw your post this morning and laughed so hard. I love how we both posted about the word “karma” this week!

      I forgot to mention your son’s room last week and how much beautiful natural light it gets! You also have large, beautiful windows! I love that.

      Ernie, I love all of your ideas! Isn’t it nice to think that spring will be here soon? 😘❤️

      Like

  18. I love how you bring natural beauty into your life; it IS a game changer.

    I love natural light; the dogs often gravitate towards the one bring corner area in our family room.

    I enjoy bringing in cuttings. Even just greenery makes a nice statement and brightens up a space.

    I’m currently on a DeCluttering Tour in our home and each time I remove unnecessary objects from a spot, I feel lighter.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Your home is very bright and sunny. I absolutely love it. And dogs LOVE sun spots.

      I was just telling someone else how I usually have fresh flowers in the house in the spring and summer, but not in the winter. I need to change that immediately.

      Liked by 1 person

  21. I suspect much of Tara’s list would resemble yours! As for me, I dunno…add more lava lamps and kitschy décor?

    I will say, we bought one of those suction cup window bird feeders but never got any actual birds to use it, even though it’s basically right next to the other feeders on the deck they enjoy so much. Once the squirrels discovered it, we took it down.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. I like how Tara and I have similar lists. But I also like lava lamps and kitschy decor.

      I bought a window feeder ffor a friend a few years ago, and the birds took a long time to come to hers. It’s fascinating to me why some feeders attract birds while others don’t.

      Liked by 1 person

  22. This is a useful practical list that resonates with me. My mother was all about buying flowers in the winter, then fussing around with them to keep them looking good for weeks, going from vases to tiny shot glasses.

    Liked by 2 people

  23. What a lovely post! I enjoy that kind of book, too. I have a sticker from a pub in Nederland, Colorado that says, “be nice or leave.” It’s maybe a little more blunt than the book, but comes from the same place in the heart, I think.

    Your list sounds pretty solid to me. I would probably swap out the gardening ones for some cycling or music ones. We’re several months away from both, despite it being an unseasonably mild winter up on the Canadian prairies.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. I have stickers that say similar things, perhaps even more bluntly. It definitely comes from the same place in the heart.

      Those are both excellent swaps. I bet you can’t wait to get back on your bike. I know I can’t wait to get back to the garden.

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Pingback: Anything Can Happen Friday: Add Beauty – Waking up on the Wrong Side of 50

  26. What a delightful way to infuse beauty into daily life! Reading your reflections on the book and your creative list has inspired me to think about the little things that add beauty to my own world. Here are a few of my ideas:

    1- Capture moments of natural beauty with photography, whether it’s a sunrise, a blooming flower, or a serene landscape.

    2- Take time to appreciate art in all its forms, whether it’s visiting a museum or admiring street art.

    3- Practice gratitude by keeping a journal of things I’m thankful for, noticing the beauty in everyday moments.

    4- Spend quality time with loved ones, sharing laughter and creating cherished memories together.

    5- Surround myself with uplifting music that soothes the soul and lifts the spirits.

    6- Engage in acts of kindness, in little but well-meant ways.

    7- Cultivate a cozy reading nook filled with pillows, blankets, and books that transport me to other worlds.

    8- Experiment with cooking new recipes, turning mealtime into a creative and delicious experience.

    9- Connect with nature by taking leisurely strolls in parks or sitting outside to watch the sunset.

    10- Embrace simplicity by decluttering and organizing spaces, allowing room for clarity and calmness to flourish.

    Liked by 1 person

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