Spring Adventures in the Kitchen and Beyond

A Fresh Start to Spring

What a way to start spring! I got up early and managed to accomplish many things. By 9 PM, I was snug in bed, reflecting on my busy day.

I woke up at 5:30 AM and went straight to the lab. With dawn breaking and the world slowly waking up, I felt a surge of motivation as I entered the lab, ready to embark on a new project.

Crafting the Hands-On Lotion

I started making the new Hands-On Lotion, and it's absolutely lovely. It’s light, non-sticky, and doesn’t linger. The texture is just perfect for the season, providing hydration without the heaviness that comes with thicker creams. I've already gone through three bottles, and I can see why—its refreshing scent and silky feel make it a delight to use on newly awakened skin.

I had to make it because it was a request, and I was eager to fulfill that need. The demand for this lotion has been growing, and with each ingredient carefully selected, it aims to nourish the skin while bringing joy and rejuvenation.

The process of blending the components was satisfying. I could already envision the smiles on the faces of those who would use it.

Baking Fresh Bread

As the morning sun rose, I felt the chill in the air and dove straight into making bread. The aroma of freshly baked bread is one of life’s simple pleasures. It felt like the perfect way to welcome the new season. With air that was crisp and invigorating, I felt inspired to create warmth.

After kneading the dough, I set it aside to rise and took a moment to enjoy the quiet and the promise of the day ahead. Then, I planted two grape trees in pots, imagining the lush vines that would flourish. Anyone else getting ready to plant their garden? Spring is the ideal time to nurture new life and prepare for the summer bounty.

Cooking Up a Delicious Chili

Next, I decided it was a chili day to pair with the bread. The thought of hearty chili with warm, crusty bread was too tempting to resist. I retrieved some ground beef from the freezer and started to thaw it for a comforting meal.

In the meantime, I chopped red peppers, yellow peppers, an onion, garlic, and fresh oregano. The vibrant colors brightened my kitchen and filled the air with delightful aromas. Each chop was a reminder of the fresh flavors spring brings, and I savored the preparation process.

Making Homemade Butter

While my chili ingredients awaited their turn, I began making homemade butter. I added a pinch of Celtic salt and a teaspoon of maple syrup from our family farm. The rich, creamy texture of the butter was a labor of love, and the hint of sweetness from the maple syrup added a unique twist to the flavor.

To top it off, I added edible flowers and spices from The Gardens, ensuring it would be not only tasty but visually pleasing too.

Bringing It All Together

Soon, the ground beef was ready for the pot, sizzling as it hit the hot surface. I used Celtic salt and a bit of olive oil to brown the meat, ensuring it was perfectly seasoned. The sounds of cooking were music to my ears, and I could almost taste the deliciousness about to unfold.

Next came the beans, a can of tomato paste, and my beautifully chopped veggies and spices. I stirred everything together, creating a bubbling pot of chili. The colors and aromas mingled beautifully, producing a dish that was both hearty and nourishing.

A Sudden Twist in the Day

And then, just as I was settling in, Hubby called to say he had to have a tooth pulled. UGH! It was disappointing news, but I quickly decided that I would whip up a comforting choice for a day that had suddenly taken a turn: asparagus soup. A warm bowl can be soothing and restorative, a perfect way to show I care for him.

The day may have shifted unexpectedly, but I’m determined to make it a good one, filled with love and care.

Conclusion

Spring is a season of new beginnings, full of warmth, creativity, and growth. Whether it’s making a nourishing lotion, baking fresh bread, or cooking up a comforting meal, these moments remind us to embrace change and find joy in everyday activities.

As we step into spring, let's enjoy the beauty and bounty this time of year brings. How are you welcoming the season's change? Feel free to reach out and share your spring stories!

Enjoy Spring,

Theresa Phillips

RedeemAndRenew@hotmail.com