This past week, I drove around Lakeland and over to Plant City, a small town a few miles away. It was a perfect day for a drive. The weather wasn’t too hot, and it’s no longer so humid like summer. I hope you enjoy the photos.
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Advent Acts of Kindness
Originally Published November 13, 2018. Updated November 18, 2024
Sunday, December 1st (2024) is the first Sunday of Advent. Many people around the world celebrate this time in preparation for Christmas. Celebrations can use an Advent calendar, an Advent wreath, and family prayers. I have printable free Advent calendars for download celebrating the 24 days prior to Christmas. If you want to simply celebrate Advent, make a wreath or calendar and add activities that enhance the season. Print and celebrate the days with family activities like gathering donations to charity, buying gifts for a Giving Tree, baking gifts for others, or reading about the story of Jesus in scripture. For more information on celebrating a simple Advent see my post, Simple Ways to Celebrate Advent: Wreaths, Calendars, & Activities . This simple Advent calendar is available for download there as well as possible scripture readings.
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November Skies in Central Florida
November brought the beginning of the best time of the year here in Central Florida. It’s a pleasant 70 degrees F when I go outside at 8 am. Most days are intense blue skies with puffy white clouds. We’re officially winding down the hurricane season, but I still pay attention to the weather to know what’s happening. We’re expecting a cooler front to come from the north this next week. I don’t mind. Most of you who live in 4 season areas would think our cooler weather is a laugh.
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How Food Brings Families Together
Studies indicate that children from families that eat together are less likely to suffer from anxiety, have higher self-esteem, and are more likely to grow up into more confident adults. Although it might not be possible to have all meals together, sharing a meal a day or over the weekends can significantly strengthen the family bond.
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AstroKnights Mural,Lakeland, Florida
Lakeland, Florida, is home to a number of meaningful murals and street art pieces. Today, I’m sharing a bright, colorful mural called AstroKnights by C. Stanley Creative. The mural is on the exterior walls of South Florida Gun & Pawn Shop at 844 South Florida Avenue. The owner of the Gun & Pawn Shop requested a bright, fantasy themed piece featuring a knight of some sort.
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November Fall Flowers
No matter what your design esthetic, real flowers make everything better. Today I’m sharing a gift of fall flowers that brighten the room.
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Magical Sky At The Lake
It’s a magical time when the sky is a deep pink and purple over the lake.
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Pumpkin Dip, A Tasty, Healthy Appetizer & Snack
Pumpkin is one of the favorite tastes of autumn. Pumpkin pie, cookies, and many other dishes offer a touch of fall with each bite of pumpkin and pumpkin spice. Earlier I shared a simple recipe for making your own pumpkin or pumpkin pie spice mix. The great thing making it: you can adjust the amount for each spice to meet your needs. Today I’d like to share a tasty, healthy dip for get-togethers and holiday gatherings. Many people have a version of pumpkin dip which often involves cream cheese, whipped cream, frozen topping, and lots of calories. My pumpkin dip is a simple one based on pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), pumpkin pie spices, and low-fat yogurt with a touch of maple syrup. It’s easy to make and tastes great.
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