5 Good Things No. 4

What a week, friends. I typed out a witty caption earlier in the week to go with Jack’s picture. But it just doesn’t feel right anymore.
I am deeply saddened by the events that have taken place this week. I listened to a sermon on Sunday that referenced the fact that we take on average 16 breaths in a minute. George Floyd was deprived that for nearly 9 minutes. We must do better as a human race. I know we can. And we will. The negative will always make the headline news. But let’s try making news in our own communities by making changes that are for the good. It’s up to us. Start in your heart, educate yourself, teach your family, and spread it to the world.

I certainly will not discount the bad that’s been happening, but I firmly believe that if we consciously look for it, we will find some good in our lives. And because this practice of finding five good things about each week has helped me to stay positive during this pandemic, I’m still going to share them today. I hope that they could maybe become good things for you too.

Virgin River

I’m pretty much averaging a 10 episode show a week these days. Much like last week’s show, Sweet Magnolias, Virgin River is a much more wholesome show without much cussing, sex, or violence. The subject matter is a tad heavy (think: loss, PTSD, domestic violence). I found out that Virgin River is based on a book series (I think there are 18 books or something like that.), so if plans aren’t made for a season 2, I’ll be jumping on that.

Patio Umbrella

Oh boy! This is such a fun purchase! A few weeks ago, I borrowed Mrs. Robyn’s patio umbrella because she didn’t have a stand for hers. Well, for Mother’s Day we gave her an umbrella stand and returned her umbrella along with it. I got a little spoiled and needed one for myself, so I put my birthday money to good use and found this one on Amazon. I mean, it has fringe. I’m in love! It’s been wonderful. I’m excited for more time out there this week when the rain clears out for a bit. The one I have is unavailable currently, but I’ve linked a near identical one in the photo and will keep an eye out for a restock. I also considered this cute one on rollback at Walmart. I still love it and hope one of you gets it!

Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Blue Light Blocking Glasses

After watching my screen time report go up, up, up, and getting headaches almost every night, I thought maybe I needed to invest in some blue light blocking glasses. Luckily, these from Amazon are super affordable, comfortable, and really cute! I like the oversize look and fit and the pink color that I chose. I’ll report back on the headaches and eye strain and if they really work after I’ve worn them a while. So far, though, so good.

Prime Reading for Kindle

If you have Amazon Prime and a Kindle, then you are probably aware of Prime Reading. I wasn’t until recently so let me explain. There’s a list of books that are available for Prime Reading and it’s basically FREE BOOKS! And if you don’t have an actual Kindle, you can download the free Kindle app to your phone or tablet and still read these free books. This week I snagged these books:

There’s also usually a list of $5 or less Kindle book sale. I’ve gotten a few good titles from there, too. So, if you’re a reader and like an e-book, check this out. And if you’re in the market for an e-reader, I highly recommend the Kindle Paperwhite.

Dutch Baby Recipe

It’s a mix between a pancake, a crepe, and a popover. And when you put syrup on it, it might also remind you of French toast. It was so simple and made for the perfect slow morning breakfast. I found my recipe on thekitchn.com.

Bonus Goodness

Flint, Michigan, protest: Police put down weapons for parade - CNN
This police officer in Flint, Michigan that walked with his community in protest.
I made my first pound cake using this recipe. It was delicious!
I’ve been having some fun conversations with people who are participating in this little challenge on Instagram. If we’re friends on Instagram, please do this challenge so I can see it. If we aren’t, come follow along with me. I’m about halfway through, but I’ve got another one on deck for when this one is finished.

I hope and pray that this week will be a better one. A week where we can find 5 more good things about our lives. They’re there. Love y’all.

Author: Elizabeth Norman

I'm a home grown Alabamian who ventured away for a while, but now I'm back! Follow along with me on my journey living the Norman life.