Saturdays on the Porch
Welcome to the porch! Let’s chat, shall we?
This week hasn’t been the best for me. Now that we’re getting settled into the new home, I’ve been feeling a little down. I haven’t been able to get out of the house so I’m stuck inside 24/7, which isn’t good for someone with depression.
I miss my morning walks with my friend Amy, where we talked about everything under the sun and laughed over stupid stuff.
I miss being able to be at my mom’s house in 3 minutes whenever I just needed to talk.
I’m starting to feel somewhat isolated and lonely up here in the “city”. I’m sure I’ll start feeling better once I can find a good walking spot and be able to tour the city a little. Whenever that may be. My husband spends every weekend out so he knows the place better than I do. Meanwhile, I’m stuck at home cleaning up after everybody and making sure everybody has what they need.
My friend Bridget shared a post this week with links to her wonderfully written articles on praising God. As I read through these posts it just hit me that it’s exactly what I needed this week! She may not know it, but God led her to bring me some peace this week and I thank them both for that.
Home Update
Honestly, not a lot has happened this week. My husband has been setting up the Ring Alarm home security system he purchased during Amazon Prime Day.
We’re still waiting to hear back from the contractors about when work can be started. “Hopefully soon” is the latest update. (Insert eye-rolling)
The weeds kicked my butt, so my husband bought some weed killer and sprayed them. Now they’re just sitting out there turning brown, looking like an even hotter mess.
My plans for this weekend are to start cleaning and preparing our other home so we can list it immediately. I also plan to visit with my mom for a few hours (even though she doesn’t know that yet!). She’s been nice enough to stop by the house and get my mail for me since our mailman just lets our mail fly all over the road and yard apparently.
What’s on the menu this week:
- Monday: Salmon Cakes, Veggies
- Tuesday: No Crust Pizza, Salad
- Wednesday: Vegitarian Enchilada Casserole
- Thursday: BBQ Chicken Pizza, Salad
- Friday: Leftover Casserole
- Saturday: Out (?)
- Sunday: Chicken Patties, Corn, Green Beans
This week’s dessert: Chocolate Chip Cookies (my daughter made)
My favorite posts from around the web this week:
- Sometimes I enjoy watching the TV show Storage Wars. But sometimes it makes me sad to see that these people are buying other people’s treasured heirlooms and selling them for a profit just to make money for themselves. I always feel like some of that stuff was left behind because the owner was down on their luck. Well, this week I came across a story of a 16-year-old boy in Rhode Island who buys repossessed storage units and does whatever it takes to return the treasured items either to their owners or to family. How sweet is that!
- Some people deserve a second chance. A judge saw that in a drug dealer in this life-changing story.
- How fun would it be to visit this amazing library in China? I was a little disapointed to find out that most of the floor-to-ceiling shelves are actually painted to look like they’re full of books. (whomp-whomp) It still looks cool, though!
Deal of the week:
*Affiliate link. Learn more about what that means here.
This month is Plastic-Free July. I’ve seen a lot of amazing ways floating around on Pinterest about how to go plastic-free to help the environment. Grove Collaborative is helping us go plastic-free this month by giving away a free plastic-free set!
The free set includes:
- Grove Co. Glass Concentrate
- Grove Co. Reusable Spray Bottle
- Grove Co. All Purpose Concentrate
- Grove Co. Reusable Spray Bottle
- Grove Co. Cleaning Caddy
- Grove Co. Scrubber Sponges
- Free Shipping & VIP Trial
Photo of the Week
I came across this photo this week and thought it was a great reminder to praise God for what He has given us. And not let distractions ruin our lives.
This week on the blog:
In case you missed it, this week I shared a list of 65 places to get free food for your birthday. If you have a birthday coming up soon, be sure to check out the list and sign up to get free food!
Your turn!
Share with me what you’ve been up to this week!
Sorry you’re feeling a little down Michelle. I think that’s understandable after all the excitement of the last few months. Be kind to yourself. It will take time to adjust to a new situation.
It has been a fun week here. My older daughter has been home for a visit and it’s so nice to have her here and just hang out and do simple stuff like puzzles and games. She’s going back on Monday though. I miss her when she’s gone.
Thank you for the encouraging words!
That’s so nice that you’ve been able to spend time with your daughter. I hope you get to spend more time with her soon!
We’re just getting back from vacation! Looking forward to being home again.
I hope you had a nice vacation! Sometimes I feel like I need another vacation just to rest from vacation. 😀
So sorry about that honey, I understand your feeling, though I am an introvert and always happy being left alone! But as you say: it is always nice to meet a good friend or go for a walk in beautiful nature. I hope your house get ready soon and all other problems will be eliminated. An old Sage says; in patience leis the strength.
Thank you for understanding. I’m an introvert, too, but sometimes I get lonely and it’s nice to have a friend. 🙂 I love that saying! Thank you for sharing it!
You are highly welcome dearest Michelle ?❤
Oh I am sorry that you don’t get to see your mom as often as before… I understand how you feel… and what’s up with the mailman? I hope they’d care for the mails like it’s theirs…
I hope you’d get your groove back soon and thanks for the stories you’ve shared, I loved that one about the kid who bought a storage unit… what he’s done was really cool!
Thank you for understanding! Right? Apparently the mailman just doesn’t care about anybody else’s mail.
I love that story, too! How sweet!
I’ll be praying for you!
Thank you so much for your prayers!
I’m sorry you’re down. When we moved I had some similar issues, but in my case we were closer to my mom. Trying to get out or find some time to myself was really important. Maybe hubby can watch your daughter while you step out for a bit of a walk or just go sit at a local park with a good book.
I love your idea of adding favorite blog posts you’ve read during the week. I may steal that idea for my Sunday Bookends. Ooh! And give you credit *wink*
That’s a great idea to go to the local park and read. I came across a park nearby while searching Google Maps (how lame!). It seems like a nice place so I’ll have to check it out hopefully this weekend. Thanks for the idea!
Thanks! You may steal away! 😀
I hope you get settled in soon and back walking again. If you can, take 10-30 minutes off each day to go outside, if possible. You will be surprised how much it will help. And then you will get a spring in your step, getting back to taking care of the things that have to be done inside. Self-care is so important! Is this a pic of your porch? Lovely pic!
Thank you for that advice! I’ll definitely get outside more and take advantage of nature. It’s not my porch, but it’s my dream porch. 🙂
Michelle, sorry to hear about the loneliness. I faced this problem and spend some walking and gardening. That helped me lot. ?
Thank you for your advice. I’ll definitely try that! I’m glad to hear it helped you. 🙂
Hope you start feeling settled again soon, Michelle, I know you guys have had a lot going on the past few months and a lot of it has been stress filled. I love that you’re looking forward to walks outside and visiting your Mom. It’s so important to have a support system, be kind to yourself and to give yourself something to look forward to. Hang in there! Sending you hugs, CoCo PS: I’ve been holding onto Isaiah 43:18-19 lately and it might help you too 🙂
Thank you so much for your encouraging words aa well as your support. Both are so much appreciated! ? And thank you for sharing the Bible verse with me, too. I’m keeping it close. ❤️
I am sorry you have been feeling down. I hope you’re able to make friends in your new neighborhood and find a place to walk. I will be praying for you!
I am so honored to know that the Lord used the praise post to lift your spirits! What an amazing Father we have, who always looks out for us! ❤️
I will have to make the BBQ chicken pizza for my husband. He will love it.
Wow, all three links you shared were amazing! About the library- that actually would be a cool idea for a home, to paint wall(s) to look like books. Maybe in a home office?
I love the photo you shared!
Thank you for your prayers! And your always helpful posts!
Painting an office wall to look like that library would be such a fun idea! ❤️
Sound like you need a good dose of sunshine (vitamin D) coupled with some grounding (going barefoot) in soft grass or sand. We had a coupled days of rain this week that kept me inside and had me feeling achy and depressed. Yesterday when the sun came out I started by going out barefoot to pick currants then was able to cut grass and finished the day with garden therapy. That had me feeling good. Take care of yourself.
I love that idea! And I’m taking your advice today and getting outside. Thank you! ?
That’s great Michelle. Grab some sunshine for me too. (we are cloudy and rainy again). ?
Oh no! I’ll send you some sunshine! It has been so hot and humid here. Ugh!
Thanks Michelle – I think it’s on the way – should be showing up soon. ??
So true that Satan wants us to focus on what we DON’T have. I hope you will find some great tings to focus on soon – a walking place, new friends, or something totally unexpected. I love surprises from God. 😉
Thank you! So true! God’s little surprisea are always the best. I can’t wait to see what He has for me next. ❤️
I hope you feel better soon. Take care of yourself, Michelle!
Thank you! ❤️
Hey! Lifting you up in prayer today! Glad you shared so myself and anyone else can be praying. You’re not alone, we all go through ups and downs.
How far are you from the old house?
I’ll definitely be checking out Grove Collabrative.?
Thank you for your much needed prayers! ❤️ We’re about 45 minutes away from the old house.
Great! I love how much stuff you can get for free when you sign up. Plus it’s really nice stuff! ?
Oh ok so a little ways from the old house, far enough to have to do a little planning etc to spend time with your mom or friend.
I’ll continue praying you get settled, content, and in a groove sweet lady!
Thank you for your prayers!! I appreciate them more than you know!
?❤️
Sorry to hear you are down. You are still a busy body ad that will help really too. Nowadays we have the wonderful internet and technology, probably you can talk to your mum like that, bake a cake together and laugh together. All the best, big hugs.
Thank you! This week has been a little better so far. I like that idea of baking with my mom. ?
Sorry you’re feeling down a bit, it takes time to get used to a new place, soon you will find your way, and in while you’re waiting remember that maybe this is just what you need, a resting period.
xoxo
Thank you so much!! I needed to hear that. ?
I’m so sorry you’re feeling down. It can be extra hard when you feel isolated or like you’re forced to be withdrawn. Have you looked into the Meetup app? I don’t know what area you are in, but Meetup offers local meetup groups based on the interests and preferences of the user. For example, if someone was looking for a local mom’s hangout group, they could search those keywords and their location and the app would pull up any relevant results. I’ve used the app for a few years now and it’s a great way to get yourself out there and meet new people. I hope you are able to feel better soon. Also, If things don’t improve, there’s never anything wrong with seeking help. I’m also available to chat if you need it. Sending love. <3
xoxo,
Sydney
http://www.thelotuslist.blogspot.com
Thank you so much, Sydney! I’ll look into the app. I’ve never heard of it but it sounds like it could be very helpful at meeting new people and trying new things. And thank you for your advice. I’ll definitely keep that in mind. ?
I think after a big move like this, you are likely to feel worn out and isolated. Hugs!
I do believe in the power of gratitude. Have you read books by Merlin Carothers – they’re all about the power of praise.
I haven’t. I’ll have to look up his books and start reading some soon. Thank you!!
I’m so sorry you’ve been feeling down, Michelle. But I totally get it. Moving to a new location away from your ‘norm’ friends and family is never easy.I think you need to treat yourself to something ‘special’ during this transition. Get your nails done, buy a coffee, favorite book or magazine..whatever it is that puts a smile on your face! As for the weeds? LOL! That made me laugh! My Michael did the same thing and I was SOOOO upset because I still had to pull the darn weeds only now they were dead!! P.S Lucky you…Chocolate chip Cookies!!
Thank you for that advice. I’m going to take it! I’m hoping to get out this week and just window shop. ? Lol!! I know exactly what you mean about the weeds! And it’s way too hot to get out there. Ugh! ?
Making a craft always make me feel better. Hope you feel better soon! You have a wonderful menu for the week. You eat so healthy and your food always looks delicious! Have a great week Michelle!
Thank you! I’m trying to finish some crochet projects that I started, which is relaxing. ?
Life is definitely a journey and the twists and turns are sometimes joyful and other times stressful. Buying and selling a house and moving to a new area are big challenges for everyone. Take care, enjoy your visit with Mom, and I hope you find a perfect walking trail because a little outdoor time walking is good for the body and the soul. The weeds will always be there. 🙂
Thank you for your encouraging (and much needed!) words! I’m definitely going to start spending more time outside and just enjoy the sunshine. 🙂
Hi Michelle! I wish I lived closer to you! My walks with friends are my therapy so I know how you must feel. And boy can I relate to the weeds … my husband sprays that stuff and it is so ugly. xoxo
It would be so nice to take a walk with you! I’m sure we could share plenty of stories. 🙂
I’m so tired of those ugly weeds! LOL
We would definitely have lots to talk about! xoxo
Thank you for such a positive blog in the midst of a not so good season for you. I am transitioning too and I sympathize. Even though you may have wanted to make that move, there have been a lot of hurdles. On top of that, change is hard! It will get easier. I did a print screen of your Adam, Eve, and focus quote. Very timely!
I’m glad you understand that it’s not the easiest thing to do, no matter how exciting at first. I’m happy you liked the quote! ?
Sorry to hear it but I’m sure as soon as you’ll go out and survey the neighborhood you’ll feel better ? All changes bring their challenges but you can do it ?
Thank you so much for the encouragement!! ?❤️
Oh Michelle… I am so sorry you are feeling down. You have had a lot going on so it’s understandable to feel a let down of sorts. Getting out for a walk may fill you with a bit of joy just seeing nature. Walking and kayaking does that for me.
I’ll pray for a better week for you my friend.
Thank you! I’ve been able to get outside more this week and it has really helped. Thanks so much for your prayers! ❤️
Sorry to hear that you’re dealing with depression. 🙁 As one who suffers from PTSD, I know that mental health is so important. God bless.
Thank you for understanding! It’s good to know we’re not alone. ?
No, we are in good company. I believe mental health issues are rampant.
I’m so sorry you’re stuck inside and feeling down. If last year taught us anything, it’s how important it is to get outside, breath in some fresh air, and feel the sun (assuming it’s out!). It’s so important to both mental and physical health. I hope you can start to get outside soon!
Thank you! I completely agree about last year. This week has been a lot better. I’ve been able to get out more, which has helped me sooo much!
So glad!
I love your new blogging of hospitality and that pie, wow! All goes so well with your new home. Any will have to visit. Pls excuse dup comments. ☀️?
Thank you so much!! ?
You are welcome dear. You are a marvelous inspiration!??
I understand moving and losing my most favorite walking partner. I’ll pray another one appears. ??
Your enchilada casserole looks delicious, btw.
Thank you for your prayers! 🙂
Thank you! It was delicious!
Dearest Michelle, I am so sorry to hear that the week you wrote this was so tough! I am sending you my prayers and BIG hugs.
My friend, it’s understandable. When we are moving or entering something new – our bodies are flooded with adrenaline, and our ‘feel good’ hormones. It keeps us on a ‘high’ that increases our productivity and helps us keep going, even when we’re tired. What happens when things begin to slow down a bit is that your adrenaline and feel good hormones begin to level off again — which makes you feel kind of lost, fatigued, and sad. I promise, as you rest (please do!), everything begins to even out again and you see the joy and excitement in the new adventure again. Go easy with yourself, my friend. It’s a BIG change! ? Plus, as you well know, our adversary Satan loves to make us focus on what we left behind instead of allowing Holy Spirit to reveal to us all the amazing stuff in front of us. It helps to remember that your dear friend Amy and your mom are still just a hop, skip, and jump away. ♥
Look up Lake Lanier in Martinsville. That was my spot to walk/jog, sit quietly on the benches and just watch the waterfowl. Beautiful, beautiful spot. There’s also another great walking park in Collinsville called Jack Dalton park. Jaycee Park is another one to consider. I promise — there are so many *amazing* spots around there to let go of stress, walk, and enjoy nature. You’re going to love them!
I loved the quote graphic too. Amen! The Christian faith walk can get dark sometimes and it becomes very easy to get discouraged. I feel your heart, Michelle. I get it; you know that I do. Heck, it’s why I’m reading this so late unfortunately. 🙁 Life got a bit tough here too. I’m so sorry for being this behind!
I pray that our awesome God would wrap you under the shadow of His Almighty wing, comfort you, protect you, and help you to rest in Him. I ask in Jesus’ name that your heart would be restored to full joy and that each day would bring new happy memories full of promise for the BEST THAT IS YET TO COME! ?
Thank you so much for your advice and support. What you said makes perfect sense and seems to be exactly what happened to me. After a few days of resting and focusing on me, I started to feel better.
Thank you so much for telling me about those spots to walk! I’ll definitely check them out. I’ve heard a few people mention “the lake” but I didn’t know what they were talking about. Now I know. 🙂
I’m sorry that life has been tough for you recently, too. Please know that I’m here if you need me! I’m sending prayers up for you!
Thank you so much for your prayers! They mean so much to me!!!
I am so grateful to hear that you are feeling better Michelle ♥️ You’ve been going through a stressful time. Rest is much needed and well deserved!
When people talk about “the lake” there, they could be referring to Philpott Lake (which is nice!) or Smith Mountain Lake. Both are fairly closeby and nice getaway spots. Lake Lanier is more like a large manmade pond tucked away in the middle of a community. It’s quiet and private usually. ?
Thank you for your prayers sweet friend. This too shall pass! Praying big smiles are your new norm and happy memories to be enjoyed each day. ♥️
My daughter and I used to go to the beach area at Fairy Stone Park. I completely forgot about that until you mentioned the lake. I’ll definitely be checking out Lake Lanier soon because it sounds like a nice quite place to go.
You’re welcome! Praying the same for you my friend! Hugs!