Small Things - The First of the New Year

"Life is not, for most of us, a pageant of splendor, but is made up of many small things, rather like an old fashioned piecework quilt. No two people have the same, but we all have our own, whether it be listening to Beethoven's fifth with a beloved friend, or seeing a neighbor at the back door with a basket of white dahlias. Or after a long, hard day, having the family say, "That was a good supper."

- GLADYS TABER

In no particular order, here are six small things that brought me joy in this first week of the New Year.

1. A Lovely Little Coffee Shop

My husband took me to a little coffee shop for breakfast yesterday, and wouldn't you know, they had the cutest little vintage red and green bar stools! I loved the ambiance more than the menu, to be honest. Still, it's always nice to go out for breakfast, and even more when the shop is decorated in your favorite colors!

2. On My Reading List

I'll be posting my reading list and goals for the year early next week, but on that list is this book, Gather & Give: Sharing God's Heart Through Everyday Hospitality. Since homekeeping and hospitality is my theme for the majority of my posts here, I found it fitting. I also have goals to be more intentional in growing friendships this year, and hosting small dinners with friends. I actually started this book a few years back, but for some reason I just realized I never finished it, so back on the list it goes!

3. Souper Sundays

I mentioned in my post yesterday that beginning this Sunday, I'm implementing a new ritual in our home, Souper Sundays. I've been saving soup recipes to a board on Pinterest for awhile now. Here are a few I'm excited to try soon!  Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Bacon,  and this Ham and Bean Soup sounds perfect for a cold winter's day!

4. Gratitude

Gratitude is a primary focus for me in the new year. I love this, . . . let us be still in grateful love!

5.  These words . . .

january

(jan-u-ary) * noun

A fresh clean page. 

Short, slow days. 

Cosy layers and hot coffee. 

Slate grey skies and trees stripped bare.

Dormancy.

An invitation to rest in the silence of winter.

Magic brewing in the darkness. 

Seeds growing out of sight.

@smallestlight

6. Biblical New Year's Resolutions

I found this on Instagram a few days ago and added it to my common place book. 

@devoted_motherhood