Contentment – Gratitude – Simple Living – Stewardship
“Merry and bright? With all the economic woes, inflation, and instability? A bright and merry Christmas seems unlikely this year. Even celebrating in the midst of all this seems crazy, let alone trying to make it merry and joyful! And Christmas gifts, now?
Everything I ever knew about cooking I learned from my Italian mother-in-law! (Wouldn’t that have made a great title!?) But it’s not true. 🤔 I already knew how to cook, and didn’t need lessons from Mamma Anna. But she did teach me menu planning, albeit second hand. And I have learned a lot about cooking from living in Italy. (Eating with Italians is in itself a cooking lesson!)
I’m fond of saying that Hubby and I should have received a financial stupidity award in our early marriage. Armed with credit cards and few brains, we shopped foolishly and extravagantly. Even buying a dog on credit!
We’ve lived fun and adventure, traveled the globe, discovered new skills and glimpsed other cultures! And all on a shoestring budget, right from our home! “How is that possible?” you ask. Through the hearts of our guests sharing the love they have for their homeland, or their passion for things like painting, making balsamic vinegar, or cooking.
I once read of a missionary family in difficult circumstances and with limited finances. Worry, discouragement and unhappiness followed their footsteps. Until one day when their young son prayed over lunch.
Do you have a problem with smelly towels? We always did, but no more! Over here, especially during Italy’s rainy season, towels take a long time to dry. So unless washed after each use, they turn sour-smelling, and so unpleasant to use!
Signora Sheila