Recently, I’ve been thinking about when we purchased our farmhouse (13 years ago last month!)
At the time, I really wanted a farmhouse “out in the country” but Dave insisted on finding a farmhouse IN A NEIGHBORHOOD (and Dave doesn’t “insist” on a whole lot).
He wanted to be close to things — people, school, church, activities, restaurants, grocery stores, etc.
Of course, we found the perfect house (it literally met every one of our ridiculously long list of requirements) and now I’m SO glad Dave was smart enough to insist on being in a neighborhood.
The kids always have neighbors to play with, we have nice sidewalks to walk the dog or go for bike rides, I can borrow an egg or a cup of sugar if I run out, our road gets plowed right away, and we’re minutes away from almost every place we go.
If the kids get sick at school (which has happened a few times recently) I can be there in 2-3 minutes, we can zip back and forth to church in a matter of minutes, AND I have 3 Aldi and 3 Meijer stores within 10 minutes of our house!
Our 135-year-old farmhouse smack in the middle of a neighborhood that’s close to everything is one of my favorite things!
Thanks Dave 🥰
I’m sharing lots more favorites below!
FAVORITE MOMENT = Snow Days
I realize most parents don’t look forward to snow days, but (for the most part) I love them — especially when they get called the night before so you know you get to sleep in.
Of course, Dave is also home on all our snow days, so that makes things extra fun.
Dave and the kids had 5 snow days recently, and we thoroughly enjoyed our extra time at home, playing in the snow (and shoveling LOTS of snow), doing puzzles, playing games, working on craft projects, drinking hot chocolate, rearranging furniture, redecorating various spaces in our home… 😁
Now all the snow is melted and we might not get much more this winter. At least I got a few cute pictures and Buster got his first snow experience!
FAVORITE ROUTINE = At-Home Piano Lessons
Our older children have taken piano lessons for a few years already and Clara started this year.
It’s something we want to continue for many years as music is a skill they can use throughout their entire lives… but it’s time-consuming and expensive!
Up until this year, we’ve paid a local teacher and carted the kids to her house once a week.
We loved the teacher, but the whole process was a huge pain in the butt and didn’t seem to work well for our family.
So we quit last spring… and now I’m teaching them at home!
I was initially nervous as to how it would go — if I would be patient enough to explain things, if they would be cooperative enough to listen and practice well.
We had a long conversation with the kids at the beginning of the year, explaining that IF they cooperated for their lessons and each practiced at least 5 times every week without complaining or arguing, we would have a special family reward at the end of the week.
This system has worked WONDERFULLY — better than I ever hoped or imagined!
Dave and I love not being tied down to another person’s schedule and driving them to and from lessons each week. The kids love staying home and not sitting at the piano teacher’s house waiting for their siblings to finish their lessons, and we save SO much money (literally thousands of dollars!)
Our routine is currently lessons on Sunday afternoons. They also each practice nearly every day for around 15 minutes.
I sit with them the first few practice times to make sure they are getting the correct notes, fingering, and rhythms, but by Wednesday, they can usually practice on their own. (We have a piano and a nice keyboard, so 2 kids can practice at once if needed).
So far, we’ve only missed one weekly reward… not too shabby!
Some of our rewards are:
- Going out to eat
- Having family friends over for an afternoon or for dinner
- Letting the kids pick out a favorite drink + treat at the gas station
- Getting Slurpees or donuts
- Having a bonfire and doing S’mores or hobo pies
- Staying up late to watch a special sporting event (like the Super Bowl)
Nothing super fancy or expensive — but they get so excited about their rewards and have had really great attitudes about practicing this year (much better than any year before).
At-home piano lessons have been a huge “win” for our family. I’m so glad I forced myself to teach them — I don’t know why I underestimated myself in the first place!
RELATED READING: Thoughts on Extra Curricular Activities
PAST FAVORITE = Braided Rugs
In one of my recent email newsletters, I mentioned that I used some Christmas money to purchase new braided rugs for our home.
I’ve LONG been a fan of braided rugs as I love the country charm they bring to our farmhouse.
In the past, I’ve always gone with round or oval braided rugs — but this time I went with rectangle.
So far, I really like the change as rectangle rugs offer more coverage. I also like the darker color of my new rugs.
Here’s a picture of my previous rugs (before they got super dirty and frayed).
I also got new GIANT rugs for the mudroom as I was so tired of stepping in little puddles of wetness from people’s boots and shoes.
I’m thrilled with my new braided rugs — definitely a good use of some Christmas money, especially if they last me 12+ years like my previous rugs did!
FAVORITE CLOTHING = Puffer Vests
I’ve been a fan of “vests” for quite some time already, but thanks to a ThredUp sale, I acquired 2 more puffer vests this winter — and I wear them ALLLLLL the time. (My vests are all Old Navy brand).
I’m always cold, so I love the warmth they offer without the bulkiness of a coat. And I feel more “put together” in a vest, compared to wearing my coat around.
I also really like vests for running errands as I don’t get too hot in the store, or feel too cold as I’m walking back to my car. Plus, they have pockets!
Who knew vests could solve so many of life’s problems?
FAVORITE BOOK = The Sensible Shoes Series
I first met the author of these books (Sharon Garlough Brown) almost a decade ago, when she spoke for a women’s Bible study at our church.
I tried to dive into her books back then, but my season of life (pregnant with 2 very young children) just didn’t allow for me to spend lots of time reading for my own enjoyment.
Thankfully, our church library has the full set, so I decided my “2024 winter project” would be to revisit The Sensible Shoes Series (among other readings).
I knew I would enjoy the books, especially since they are written in that ‘back-and-forth’ style I love so much (going back in time, switching between characters, etc.) so I’m glad I have a little more time for reading these days (crazy how life changes in a decade!)
If you’re looking for a short series of inspirational and uplifting books to dive into yet this winter (or whenever), I highly recommend The Sensible Shoes!
READ THE BOOKS: The Sensible Shoes Series
FAVORITE MEDIA = Free Audiobooks
I’ve enjoyed dozens of free audiobooks over the years, especially after investing in wireless earbuds (which really are SOOOO much nicer than having cords!)
It’s rare for me not to have an audiobook open on my phone — and I love that I can get so many completely free via the Libby App, The Hoopla App, and free trials of Audible throughout the year.
I just finished listening to TheMama Bear Apologetics’ Guide to Sexuality. It’s SO good. I actually listened to it twice in a row!
Before that, I listened to All My Knotted Up Life by Beth Moore, Sarah, Plain and Tall, and M. is for Mama by Abbie Halberstadt.
I love listening to an audiobook (or podcast) while cleaning, folding laundry, taking the dog for a walk, cooking, baking, working in the yard, or driving to and from activities.
It’s definitely my favorite way to “multi-task” these days!
FAVORITE SNACK = Australian Licorice
A recent Costco trip resulted in a few “extra purchases” — one of which was a bag of Darrell Lea Australian Licorice.
It’s amazing!
RELATED READING: What I buy at Costco
I got curious about what made Australian licorice different, and I came across a great answer/explanation.
Australian licorice has a distinctive licorice flavor derived from licorice extract and aniseed oil. The pieces also have a hint of a smoky, earthy flavor that comes from the combination of wheat flour and molasses that are used to make Australian licorice. (source)
It has become a favorite “movie night” treat for everyone in our family.
FAVORITE RECIPE = Fruit Pizza
This might seem like more of a summery dessert (and it can be), but I love making Fruit Pizza during winter months as well.
Fruit pizza works well with canned fruit (just make sure you drain it well and dry it on paper towels before adding it to the pizza) so it’s easy to make when fresh fruit is hard to come by.
Doesn’t it LOOK amazing? Well, it tastes even better!
TRY THE RECIPE: Fruit Pizza
FAVORITE TOOL = Heatless Curling Headbands
I’ve had my eye on these heatless curling headbands for a long time now, and I finally decided to purchase them during a Christmas sale.
They are AMAZING!!!
It only takes 2-3 minutes to quickly wind the girls’ hair around the headband before they go to bed… and in the morning, they have perfect curls that last all day!
For reference, Nora’s hair is EXTREMELY thick, coarse, “frizzy”, wavy, and very snarly/difficult to manage.
Clara’s hair, on the other hand, is super fine, silky, and bone straight — so the fact that this heatless curling headband works for both of them is practically miraculous (I do spray a little hairspray in Clara’s hair before putting the headband in at night).
FAVORITE ARCHIVED POST
Grocery prices have been more “stable” around here for the last year — but they are still much higher than before the pandemic.
If you’d like a few practical tips to immediately reduce your grocery budget, these 10 should help you get started!
Read the full posts here.
That’s all for this month. 😆
Scroll through all my Favorite Things posts HERE!
Anna says
Were there any particular online video tutorials you particularly liked for the heatless curlers?
Thanks!
Anna
Andrea says
I just watched the video in the Amazon add. The process felt very intuitive and was pretty straight-forward. Very easy and such great results!
Susan says
I never realized you live in a neighborhood. I always assumed you lived “in town”. Are other houses around you also farmhouse style and on such large lots?
Andrea says
yes, we live in a neighborhood, and no — the other houses around us are just normal houses (built in the 80s and 90s) on normal size lots. Our yard actually butts up to 8 different properties! Crazy!
BB says
GREAT articles Andrea!
I found most of the Sensible Shoes in audio on Hoopla, but the descriptions don’t always say WHAT the book number is in the series, so here they are in order to make life a little easier in that respect: 1-Sensible Shoes (the only book not on Hoopla – so maybe start at your local library), 2-Two Steps Forward, 3-Barefoot, and 4-An Extra Mile. There is also another of this author’s series on Hoopla that continues the Sensible Shoes series: 1- Shades of Light, 2-Remember Me, 3-Feathers of Hope. I’m looking forward to listening to these books as I do things around the house, or am out for walk.
Andrea says
oh wow — thanks so much for letting me know about the continuing series! I need to check that out ASAP!!!
Julie says
Such a great updates post! Your kids are getting g so big and Norah is growing up so fast into quite a lady! Love your longer hair also
Blessing s to you all in 2024!
Andrea says
Thanks so much, Julie!
Debbie says
I do like your longer hair too. Vests are all the rage this past season and I recently purchased cropped vests from Amazon. They keep me so warm but I still wear a coat because the arms still get cold if I’m just wearing a sweater underneath. However, for short errands I take a chance without the coat. I had thought all this time that you were the one giving piano lessons to the kids. I’m glad it’s working out and you’re saving money. I recently took up playing another instrument and I need that 15 minutes/day practice myself. Otherwise, the busyness of adulting overtakes my day. I wonder what I can reward myself if I do this? Ha ha!
Andrea says
haha — adult rewards! Maybe chocolate or a special evening treat.
Verna says
I LOVE your monthly favorite things posts! Also, your longer hair is beautiful!
Andrea says
Thanks Verna!
Christine says
Andrea your longer hair looks beautiful! It really brings out your eyes. Love to get your email every week. Stay warm!
Andrea says
Thanks Christine!
Michelene E Witthuhn says
Love the rugs! If you need a post idea… cleaning of rugs and what to put in front of doors would be super helpful! I grew up in the city and in Arizona so no mud, no dirt, people didn’t have a lot of rugs. We all had tile. Now I live in the midwest, on a farm. So much dirt. Actual dirt. I use entry rugs, but they get filthy and I am not sure how to wash. I love the look of your rugs, but how would I be able to get the dirt out? How do you wash? They look too big to shake or put in washer. Any tips? I have three entries to the house. And while they do take shoes off a lot, all the time is just not going to happen for our family of 9, esp when they are working outside a lot and in and out for a drink. I’ve followed you for years and love all your advice!
Love the puffer vests- alas, they do not work for this larger woman! I wish they did. You tall, thin girls always look so cute!!
One of my fav things about you, is that you don’t follow trends. While your house looks cute and charming, I don’t see you switching everything up bc of the latest styles. I absolutely love this. I have always loved the decorating of your home!
Andrea says
Hi Michelene!
Thanks so much for your comment and sorry for the delayed response (it ended up in my SPAM!)
Anyway, you are right about the braided rugs — they can’t really be washed in a washing machine. We have rugs OUTSIDE that can be washed and help to get some of the dirt out.
I chose a darker color rug so it wouldn’t show the dirt, and I do shake them out and vacuum them (and under them) each week. The bigger ones are a little challenging to shake, but I make it work 🙂
Thanks for your compliments on my puffer vests — they are just the perfect thing to keep me warm but not too warm.
And thanks for your kind words — I’ve never been a “trend follower” (sort of a rebel at times even!) I love my patriotic farmhouse whether it’s “on trend” or not! Have a great week!
Katie says
I totally agree with Dave on the neighborhood thing. We actually ARE farmers but live in a neighborhood close to the farm for the reasons you outlined above! My in laws live on the property and I’m sure we’ll end up there someday, but for now our kids love having friends nearby.
Andrea says
This is so awesome — thanks for sharing this Katie!
I’ve honestly never considered being a farmer and NOT living on the farm, but everything you say makes sense! So glad you shared this perspective for others who might be reading with similar thoughts or desires!
Christine says
Ah, I’ve been trying to convince myself to teach my kids piano for years! I have a mental block. You’ve motivated me to try the reward system. Any other tips? Do you use the same teaching series for all for of them? Thanks Andrea!
Andrea says
If you feel fairly confident with your own piano abilities, I’m certain you can teach your children! We use the Bastien books for all our kids, but I also find other books to supplement (like hymns for kids, jazz books for kids, movie songs for kids) so they are fun songs the kids know.
Jenn says
Great post, so many good tips and ideas 🙂 Curious what you will be making to watch the Super Bowl this weekend? I always enjoy your recipes.
Andrea says
I don’t have many “special” plans for Super Bowl food b/c we usually do “family movie night” on Sunday evenings so we always have meat, cheese, veggies, fruit, crackers/chips and dip, candy, popcorn, fun drinks etc.
We are taking the kids to the store on Saturday to each pick out their desired drink + snack so I suppose that is something special (it’s a reward for practicing their piano with good attitudes for a whole week).
We love spinach dip with crackers and veggies. Also, chips with quac and salsa…and pizza sliders usually go over well for movie night as well.
Enjoy your weekend!
Pascale says
Hello Andrea,
I always love reading about your favorite things or routines.
We have a 2-tier boot tray and two 3-tier shoe racks in our mud room and it really helps to keep that area nice and tidy especially that we always wear slippers inside our home and we ask our guests to do the same.
A few of my favorites are intermittent fasting and being on a Keto/ Paleo diet. Both of these have helped me tremendously on my health journey.
Andrea says
Thanks for sharing Pascale — the boot tray and shoe racks sound fantastic!
And you are always such an inspiration with your healthy lifestyle and eating habits! Good for you!
Pascale says
Thank you for your kind words, Andrea.
I do appreciate you taking the time to reply to my comment.