January’s Jewels — Lorelei’s Monthly Wrap-Up and a CONTEST to win jewelry!
February 6, 2021
Did January seem to drag on and on for anyone else? With all the turmoil that happened in our country throughout the month, I was either obsessively watching TV and scrolling social media or avoiding it entirely — no in between.
So I’ll get the first confession off my chest: I didn’t write a damn thing in January (see above for reasons why) Instead, I stayed in my little COVID-19 safe bubble. Ooh, I had snacks and crafts and books in my little bubble so it wasn’t all bad. My knee is feeling good enough that Mr. James and I have even started walking again, which makes Copper happy. It’s been in the 40s,50s, and 60s here, but that came to a screeching ass halt yesterday; the high today is 10 degrees. Yes, that’s FARENHEIT — we dip to the below zero temps tomorrow so we’ll see if I brave the super cold with some of my subzero outerwear because living in South Dakota means I have a lot of it.
THIS is the lovely necklace I’m giving away to some lucky commenter!
Those are Swarovski crystals, so it is very sparkly! Since I want you to have this before Valentine’s (or Galentine’s) Day, I will announce the winner tomorrow, before the Super Bowl, so make sure you check back/or subscribe to the blog so you get notifications of new posts — because I’m mailing this out on MONDAY 🙂
Anywhoo…onto my month. I did a lot of basic cooking, nothing super exciting or challenging. But I did snap pics of a couple of dishes that turned out decently.
WHAT I COOKED
I called these “clean out the fridge” brats. I found a package of Italian bratwurst in the freezer, the fridge contained peppers, onions and cheese to use up….so voila–these were very good, probably because they reminded us of summer.
As I’ve talked about before, we love our healthier crust homemade pizza. We had an extra crust but no meat toppings so I made a 5 cheese pizza (cheddar, shredded mozzarella, mozzarella balls, goat cheese and parmesan). Normally I’m not a fan of cheese pizza but this was so good I’ll make it again.
Ever had one of those nights where you’re craving something sweet and all the Oreo’s are already gone? Rummaging in my fridge, I found a can of crescent rolls and grabbed a bag of chocolate chips. 30 minutes later I had these chocolate-y croissant things that were delicious and so easy that I’ll definitely whip them up again!
I’m always looking for something new and easy to make, especially if I can get away with making it in one pot. My youngest daughter found this recipe for Balsamic Pork Tenderloin done in the Instapot and raved about it so much I knew we had to try it. Honestly, it was super easy, tasted good, and we served it over rice. I will say the sauce is very sweet (you can easily cut the sugar in half) and it makes a ton of sauce. Here’s the recipe for those interested in trying it: Instant Pot Balsamic Pork Tenderloin
WHAT I WATCHED
I already waxed poetic about Crash Landing On You (have you watched it yet??? WHY NOT???) and when I compiled this list, it looked pretty scant. I think because I listened to a ton of audiobooks at night instead of watching TV.
Star Trek Discovery, season 3, CBS All-Access — As a Star Trek nerd, this series has made my heart SO HAPPY. I love that they let the lead character Michael Burns (female) grow and change dramatically this season. I was also glad they didn’t keep the crew apart for longer than 2 episodes. Only gripe: How did Michael NOT jump all over the man who plays Booker when they were flying around alone in space together for a YEAR?! That man is hotter than a damn asteroid. Anyway, good installment. I much prefer this series to Picard…
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, season 4/series finale, Netflix — I’ve spoken of how much I love the campiness and the seriousness mixed together in this show. Some people were bothered by the Satanism aspect (I’ll admit that we actually watched a documentary on the Church of Satan and it is NOT what it’s made out to be). Given it was Sabrina’s senior year in high school, I wasn’t surprised that the powers that be decided to end the series…I wasn’t super happy with how they ended it, but I get why they did…trying not to give any spoilers.
Tenet, VOD — I’d read this was Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece, and I tried to go into it with an open mind despite the fact I HATED Inception. When we finished watching this one, Mr. James and I looked at each other, and said WTF was that? (and we hadn’t even treated ourselves to some gummies beforehand) 😝 We decided maybe our tastes are lowbrow because we thought it was stupid.
Homefront, Netflix — You all know I love me some Jason Stathem and somehow I missed this movie about a widowed tough guy who moves into a small town with his daughter and stirs up all kind of trouble by being a stand up guy. Lots of fighting, lots of tough talk. James Franco was awesome in it too. I enjoyed it 🙂
Kill Bill, Volume I and II, HBO — It’s been a long running…thing in our house that I’ve never watched Kill Bill. I always thought it would be WAY too gory because…Tarantino. Given that I’ve watched some super gory shows this past year, when HBO advertised they were running both volumes back-to-back, I finally agreed to watch them, much to my family’s shock. Look, Tarantino is hit or miss for me. I hated Reservoir Dogs, but I really liked Once Upon A Time in Hollywood and I appreciated Pulp Fiction, but didn’t really like it., and I loved the episode of Alias that he directed and starred in. So there’s myriad reasons why I’ve not sought these movies out. But I got my popcorn and settled in Saturday night for a double feature.
I really, really liked Kill Bill 1 — so stylistic, I dug the backwards storytelling and the expert placement of flashbacks. Great acting, great fight scenes.. I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would, but I’m not kicking myself for not seeing it sooner or anything. My girls all texted me while we watched it asking…WELL, what did you think?
Kill Bill 2 — eh. Interesting secondary characters but they kind of stole the show. Plus, I hated the ending. I really think the story could’ve been told in one movie– I think that about a LOT of things, book series especially, with the same characters, that drag on and on…into a trilogy and then a quad–whatever and sometimes into a 5th book. TELL THE STORY SUCCINCTLY. Don’t milk it.
HOWEVER, I have a great idea for a new installment in this world! 25 years later, the Bride (Beatrix) is killed by the daughter of the first woman she killed in KB1 — and Beatrix’s daughter B.B. is out for revenge. The title? Wait for it…KILL BELL because the little girl who watched the Beatrix kill her mom? Their last name is BELL. Tarantino, if you’re reading this, have your people call mine 😆
WHAT I READ
It surprised me to see that I’d only read 2 books in January.
Ember in the Ashes (book 1), A Torch Against the Night (book 2) — YA dystopian/fantasy, Sabaa Tahir — This series had been popping up in my recommendations for a few years and during Black Friday week, all 3 books were on sale for like $1,99 each, so I bought them. My youngest daughter, who is an 8th grade language arts teacher, bought them also and we’re doing our own book club. This is a very dark, very violent series. I’m honestly shocked that it is YA, there is so much brutal killing and genocide. The characters are compelling, but not all likeable, given the horrors they have to inflict on one another. This is one of those series where nothing good EVER happens. I’ve started book 3 and I’ve got to say, I’ll need to read a romantic comedy after I finish this series.
WHAT I LISTENED TO
With being on a writing break, I spent a lot of January….crafting, so I had the chance to listen to a bunch of audiobooks. I’ll confess that I did return one. Daughter #2 and I planned to do our own audiobook club. The audiobook in question was narrated by her favorite narrator so we bought it. It was AWFUL. Ugh. Over exaggeration of the female voices and the storyline wasn’t enough to keep my going with the series. We’ll try again with another audiobook 🙂
I listened to variety of genres, and some of them were shorter listens, which I’ve found I need — long book after long book gets a bit daunting for me so I mix it up.
A Witch in Time, Audible sale purchase for $6 — this was a reincarnation story, where a girl and her lover are cursed, doomed to meet again and again and never find happiness. The story was told in multiple flashbacks, and it was cleverly done. The ending felt a bit rushed, but I did like the overall story and the narrators were great.
Moon Dance, included in Audible Plus, paranormal — a mother turned vampire against her will and it’s ruining her personal life so she becomes a PI which allows her to work late at night. It was an okay listen, but didn’t keep my interest enough to continue with the series.
The Short Drop, Audible sale purchase for $6 — mystery/thriller/psychological suspense, super twisty “time is of the essence” tale of the missing daughter of a senator and how a new lead springs up years later that might explain what happened to her and why someone doesn’t want her found. Great story and narration.
Wicked Abyss, Audible purchase, paranormal romance — ROBERT PETKOFF IS EVERYTHING. Seriously. I have always always been a HUGE Kresley Cole fan and was curious to hear her stories after my PA Kim oohed and aahed over the narration. HOLY CRAP is he one of the best narrators I’ve ever heard. It just makes the stories so much better and they were fantastic to begin with. This is book 17 in the Immortals After Dark series, the only one I hadn’t read, so I was happy to fall back into that world.
High Strangeness, included in Audible plus — this listen fell between a podcast and one of those old radio shows, where you get sounds and actions in addition to the narration. It was a very bizarre sci-fy storyline, to be honest. Eight episodes, each under 30 minutes. Production was amazing, but loud.
Jack: Grime and Punishment, included in Audible Plus, a male/male romance dealing with the aftermath of suicide and bullying, so it is a bit angsty. The narrator did a great job with all the voices.
Lore, Audible credit , YA contemporary fantasy –I’d heard buzz about this book and it sounded interesting: old Norse Gods put in human bodies in NYC in a “death race” type of competition. Again, I do not understand how these books are being labeled as YA with all of the brutality and on page violence. This is another book where it seems like nothing good ever happens to the main characters. And to be totally honest? I listened to it earlier in the month, and when I started this post, I had to go back and re-read the book description to remind myself what it’d been about. Maybe that means I’m reading too much YA….
The Gentleman From Peru, included in Audible Plus, a sweet, weird story about soulmates. I liked that even though the story was short, it was complete. Narration was great.
No Rest for the Wicked, Audible purchase, paranormal romance — since I’d already owned the e-book of this (as well as the print copy) I got the audiobook for a reduced price. And since I’m HOOKED on Robert Petkoff’s voice, I hope to listen to all of Immortals After Dark. And it was so fun to go back and revisit Emmaline and Lachlan’s love story and remember how this amazing series started (YES, I know The Warlord Wants Forever is the prequel to this book, but when I started reading this series at it’s inception YEARS ago, that novella didn’t come out until like after book 6 was released) And yes, I am a rabid-ish Kresley Cole fan…the woman CANNOT write a bad book. Sigh.
Roommate, Audible purchase, a male/male romance — gah, Sarina Bowen is another one of those writers who can’t write a bad book. I LOVED THIS STORY so much. It deals with family and expectations and what defines success and comfort. Keep an eye on narrator Stephen Dexter because he was great!
Bride Mates, included in Audible Plus — a male/male romance that was short and sweet. And Teddy Hamilton was awesome, as usual.
WHAT I CRAFTED
Spent quite a bit of time in January plopped on the couch doing needlecraft. This first one is the piece I did for my oldest daughter for Christmas. The damn thing took me a MONTH, well, my own fault because I added to it more than the kit required. This picture shows where I ran out of thread so close to the end I literally screamed. Of course it required the special kind of thread that I had to order directly from DMC. If I get to see my daughter before next month’s post, I’ll share a picture of the framed, finished project (not really fair to let you all see it before she does, huh?)
I’ve never done silk ribbon embroidery and it’s always intrigued me. I saw this kit for satin ribbon embroidery on Amazon for like 10 bucks or something (it’s still available on there if you’re interested in trying it yourself) so I ordered it, figuring I’d need to practice stitches on something cheaper than silk ribbon since HOLY SHIT is silk ribbon expensive! This is how the kit arrived:
I’ll admit I had to watch several YouTube videos on how to do the stitches since I was a newbie and the directions were lousy — worst thing about the the kit. And since this was done on stiff canvas, I had to use pliers to pull the needle with every stitch, which sounds excessive but it saved my poor fingers! It turned out great. As usual, I added my own touches to it, because I didn’t like how the ribbon on the bottom looked. Sorry guys, I’m a bad photographer but here it is. It’s in an 8X8 frame for size reference.
Since I’ve gravitated toward crafting flowers and christened my finished works the PANDEMIC POSIES collection, I’ve really tried to do different types of embroidery and stitching to stretch my skills. I saw this 3-D kit and thought, cool! It arrived like this, again with the pattern printed on the canvas, which I’ve found a help rather than a hindrance.
The instructions were in Ukrainian– seriously. When I’ve bought Ukrainian kits in the past, there’s always English instructions. Not so this time, so I muddled through, you know, doing my own thing because I’m stubborn like that. Anyway, it was fun, I love the beaded ladybugs and the puffy spend thistle bloom. I’ll hang it with the rest of the projects, but it’s not my favorite. It’ll fit in a 4X6 frame.
I’m crazy for beaded embroidery and when I saw this “shimmering fruits” collection I just knew I’d do all 5 in the collection. The finished size is roughly 4X4. Here is the pear, and I love how it turned out. I bought 5 identical frames for when I get them all done and BONUS! You can’t even see the small coffee stain on the left side on this one — haha
I did manage to sneak a quick lunch with my friend Tammy early in the month. She asked if I’d been writing because well, she manages Books-A-Million here and she’s been a HUGE supporter of my career since my first book BLOOD TIES released in 2005. We’ve gotten to be good friends over the years. So when I told her that I’d been embroidering, she asked “where’s mine?” and I did this one just for her…because it fits her so well 😎😀 I didn’t like the stitching on the pattern so I added my own bling. Turned out cute, doncha think?
I actually finished this one last month. This was another Ukrainian beading kit (with English instructions!) done on wood, and it’s unique, if nothing else.
That’s it! That was my month. We did get to FaceTime with the grandbaby, which is always fun because she yells YAYA when she sees me since she can’t say Lolly yet 🙂
Can you believe it’s less than TWO WEEKS until this releases???
SO share with me what you did in January! What the weather is like where you are, what fun things you’re doing, or anything at all!
XOXO
L~
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Teri said:
I did pretty much the same as you. Watching news and social media because of all the crap going on. Then I deactivated Fakebook. Sure miss seeing your post and all my friends. Gonna try and stay off of it a month at least though.
You are right about Tenet, wth confussing. Can’t believe you hadn’t seen Homefront yet. Had to get it on DVD couple of yrs ago.
Beautiful necklace! Love the dumb shit needle point lol
Brandi H said:
We just stayed home expect for my son’s 7th birthday.
Anne Fescharek said:
What terrifies you more, a blank word processor screen or a needlework kit with instructions in Ukrainian?
Your fan, Anne
Amanda Horner said:
I know how you’re feeling about the weather. I live in Nebraska and we just got done digging out from the last storm that dumped 15 inches. We are suppose to get 6-8 more inches this weekend and have high temps in the single digits. I love the pictures of your baking. My go to recipe is homemade pumpkin cinnamon rolls. I have been watching Twisted Sisters and Murder in the Heartland. I just got done reading Wicked Abyss by Kresley Cole and Ancient Enforcer by Katie Reus. I can not wait until your book comes out in a couple weeks.
Suzie Weber said:
Dang you write, cook and do needlework. I can’t draw a straight line even with a ruler. 🤦♀️🤦♀️
As I started to read your blurb just the tip of one of your cooking pictures was on the bottom of my IPad. I had to do a double take then slowly scrolled up. Oh a brat. Thanks for that titillating moment, it’s 13 degrees in Michigan.
bn100 said:
food looks tasty
Mary C said:
January weather was cold and rainy – at least it wasn’t snow. Read books and watched the Golden Girls and Columbo on DVD.
Donna said:
I envy you for your cooking abilities. If I kept things in the fridge to try out recipes, the stuff would go bad before I got a chance to use it.
One show I really liked will start its second season soon. Have you watched “For All Mankind”? It’s on Apple +. I did a trial membership so I could watch the first season. The premise is that the USSR beat the United States to the Moon. In this alternate time line, there are lots of women astronauts. The show is from the same production company that does “Outlander”. Give it a try.
Dar said:
January was a lot of reading for me, and getting back to healthy eating. Also did some more decluttering and, after living in the new apartment for 4 months, making some choices on furniture needed and things to go
Tambra Byrne said:
For you, January was your long month. For me, the longest month has been February. And we’re only 1 week in. Right now, I’m snuggled under my blanket after shoveling the 4″ of snow we got this morning. It’s 9 degrees right now and I have no compunction to move from my nest. We’re supposed to another couple of inches of snow tomorrow and then a couple more on Monday. Oh to live in the midwest during winter.
bn100 said:
fun food to cook for meals
Ginna Honeycutt said:
The weather here in North Carolina sucks. I had to work this morning & the sun was out & temp got up to 55. It’s now cloudy & 50. Supposed to rain tonight & all day tomorrow.
Melinda Coombs said:
This January has been exciting reading wise. Reading a lot of Historical Romance, including Silver-Tongued Cowboy. But also a lot of Regency Romance. Watched the craziest times happen in D.C. live on t.v. Then I just avoided all news and tv as much as I could to avoid hearing news and such. I did a lot of freezer prep for meals just to have on hand. Lots of baking also. As for the weather, it has been downright cold here in Central Ohio and supposed to be even colder next week on my 40th Birthday. Have a Great Weekend!!
Kristie Heath said:
Love Audible books – I’m a big sci/fi reader when listening to a book. I highly recommend the Two Necromancer series by L. G. Estrella. They are HILARIOUS! It’s the first book that I’ve listened to that I see it in cartoon format. Super fun stories and there are ninja rats! Also look up Benedict Jacka – Alex Verus series. Wizard set in modern day London. They are incredible and will keep you on the edge of your seat. Such a clever idea and series. Lastly if you like any epic fantasy, one of the best authors is Michael J. Sullivan. Look for A Theft of Swords – Riyria Chronicles. Hadarian and Royce – the best characters out there. Lots of books in the series, but the first three are fan favorites. Lastly if you haven’t read A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness then the audible readings are super great. I go back and relisten when I want to lose myself in that world. Hope you stay warm. It’s even cold in Georgia! Although I’m excited, starting to see my bulbs coming up in my gardens. Take Care!
Yasmeen said:
This southern gal experienced her first MAJOR northern winter storm….and wow can I say it was a workout itself to shovel all that snow.
We got a lovely sunny day and before another snow tomorrow. Gonna soak it up and pretend it’s spring lol
Anne Fortunato said:
Have you read The House in the Cerulean Sea? You should…it was fantastic!!!
Karen said:
We’ve spent the past two days removing snow here in northern Ontario. It’s currently -9 C and windy here. I’ve been reading and trying to finish my grand daughter’s first year scrapbook.
Aly P said:
Lorelei you are so talented and have so much patience! I can’t do those, but I love to bake 😀
If you are ever in the mood for some historical romance look up Minerva Spencer and SM LaViolette(her penname). She’s really good and I like her twists. She also has some erotic historical romance which was really interesting!
Stacey C said:
And now I need to make chocolate croissants! Thank you for the idea!!
Jeanine Lesperance said:
I love your needle work and recipes. I will have to watch some of these. I am so tired of being home.
Amanda Ralls said:
I love all of your cooking posts. Thank you for sharing your craft work
Haly said:
In the month of January I finished one blanket (crochet), started and finished two (although the second one technically just got done this week) and I’m sitting to start another. I got distracted by a certain someone’s blog post. Quarantine brought a lot of huge changes for my husband and I. We decided to get healthy for one. Cooking at home all the time just kind of morphed into eating better and that bled into exercise and here we are. So far I’ve sloughed off 40 lbs since the end of July. My husband just got his license last Thursday! He was in a car accident 15 years ago that left him a quadriplegic and he’s strong and healthy enough to be driving on his own now. He’s spent about a year working to put everything together to make it happen and it did. My pride in him has never known such levels because as he was doing that…he went back to school. This guy, I tell you. He’s decided to go back to school for some businesses classes to help our baby business grow. If I could love him anymore I’d pop and float away like a balloon. The amount of work he puts into any given day between his disability, our business and now school is insane and he never complains. I don’t know how he does it. We hit 20 years together this year and 18 married and I can’t wait to take him to our favorite spot and force him to relax. What a joy it will be to watch that moment when he knows where I’m taking him. I simply can’t wait. 🤍
Lorelei James Post author said:
Haly! You won! I know I contacted you privately but I wanted to post this for anyone who wondered if I picked a winner 🙂
Haly said:
Thank you again! It’s so kind of you and such a beautiful necklace. ☺️
Jenny Black said:
The food looks tasty!!!
I love all your crafty stuff. I finally got around to getting back to my cardinal cross stitch. I discovered that I’d made an error so I had to fix it, and fortunately it was easy to do. We’ll see how much more progress that I make this month.
January was on the warm side, I am in Florida after all. Not tank tops and shorts warm, but I didn’t need a hoodie too much. My daughter and I rang in the New Year down at Disney and Universal with some relatives. Lots of fun, lots of mask wearing and hand sanitizing. It was better safeguards than you see in most stores around town because the mask wearing was enforced.
Jacey said:
I’m so jealous of all your talents!!
Since January is year end for me at work, I’m doing 10-12 hour days for four weeks, and it gets old really quick! Anyways, I found a new free coloring app that I absolutely love as a stress reliever! It’s called Happy Color and has done wonders for reducing my stress level.
January in Minnesota is normally cold but starting yesterday and for the next ten days we have single digit to below zero highs and wind shields even lower!!
Zoua said:
Read vintage harlequin novels, Diana Palmer and Janet Dailey ♥ Reread some of my favorites by you. Work, worked some more.
Rhonda Rupard said:
I’m in NC so weather has varied all over the place. I swear we have 4 seasons in one week. Didn’t do much for January except was able to finally spoil my first grand baby after getting over the COVID New Year’s Eve. Not much to do since hunting season is over and waiting on spring to start to fish with my husband. I love to bake so I have been baking several pound cakes to feed the guys at my husband work. Re reading the black top series. After that will probably start the rough riders again! ❤️
Mary Preston said:
I love to embroider but have never tried it on silk ribbon.
I must catch up on the episodes of Sabrina.
I am reading a lot of murder mysteries lately.
Anita Mallari said:
Our temps are single digits well into next week along with negatives into the over nights. It’s been snowing on weekends and a few days in the week.🥶 we’re all still working from home so if not working spending my time reading, baking, FaceTime with friends and basic house chores.
Turning 50 this month but due to COVID I won’t be celebrating with friends and family as I had hoped. Damn you COVID!
Lisa Kendall said:
The necklace is gorgeous. Thanks for the watching, listening recs….I love all the crafting but of course my favorite is …the dumb shit😄😄😄
Barb Kiser said:
I’ve not really done anything. My birthday was last month. The weather today 2-6 is not bad but we are expecting 2-4 inches tonight and tomorrow. Plus I keep my 22 month grandson while his mom and dad work.
Linda Gawthrop said:
Luckily I discovered Outlander and The Last Kingdom on Netfllix and binged on them which is where my January went…now I am onto watching The Sinner! Goodbye February!
flchen1 said:
Wow, Lorelei, I LOVE seeing all the crafty things you’re up to! We also have been trying a ton of different recipes, and since our youngest is at the eating-us-out-of-house-and-home stage, we are cooking what feels like constantly! Another reason I need to pick up Cowboy Bites 😉 One new recipe we tried this month that was a win is this one for Korean-style pork belly: https://www.spicetheplate.com/pork/korean-style-pan-fried-pork-belly/
As for crafty things, I’m gathering supplies to try crocheting again for a friend. We shall see how this turns out, LOL! Here’s to a terrific February!
Babette Anderson said:
I can’t wait to read Cowboy Bites! I am very excited for the release. January went by very quickly at my house. But am looking forward to spring.
Tessie Tavares said:
Loved January weather! We had a snow day. Lived in southern nevada 8 years and it was our first.
Cindy said:
What a lovely necklace. I’m impressed with everything you’ve done. I am not that motivated!
Chris Alexander said:
My reading was better than in December, so that’s good. I haven’t gotten back to walking, yet. I was pulling a calf muscle in the fall and am worried about doing that again. I’ve got to get back to walking, though. My hobby is crocheting and I’ve been working on things all along.
It’s a pretty necklace. Thanks for the chance.
Vicki Burow said:
Gah, all I did was read and sleep. I feel like such a slug. My vision kind of sucks and I can’t do cross stitch anymore, but I love the projects you did, especially the beaded ones. I miss doing pretty things likes that one for your daughter and the snarky one. Awesome! You’re such an inspiration. Thank you.
Colleen said:
I stopped reading after college and started back up when I got my hands on Kressley Cole and devoured the series several years and so much life happened. The rambling twists of my reading journey led me to a free little story about a sassy cowgirl named Keeley on my fabulous nook app. I’ve been a slightly rabid fan ever since.
Cindy Durbin said:
Love the artwork! Happy Valentine’s Day!
CzekMart said:
You are so talented – LOVE your embroidery♥️
I’ve been reading romantic suspense and watching The Crown.
Judy Wagner said:
January at my house involved a lot of cleaning up! We had tons of Christmas decorations to put away even though only two of our sons came over. I still decorated like we were having dozens of guests. Our weather was pretty mild until the snow came at the end of the month. We received 21″ of snow in 1 week! So now it’s cold and there’s mountains of snow so I am home reading. Looking forward to your upcoming release!
Rebecca said:
I love to see your craft projects! I’m a needlepointer.
Nicole W said:
Cooking and reading. Audio books are my thing when I can’t sit and read (so basically for everything). I get bored of music too quickly and books keep me entertained. Cooking wise I currently have Fire Roasted Tomato Spinach Tortellini soup on the stove. Tomorrow Super Bowl menu includes Buffalo chicken egg rolls, veggie croissant pizza, caramel apple grapes, wings etc.
Danielle mcdonald said:
I did a lot of reading and being sad this january we had some bad news so still trying to deal with the news as it will change our future significantly
Angel Hollmeyer Crum said:
WOW! You were busy in January! I worked, read a few books and took care of the family!! But those Chocolate crosiant thingies look good!! And I have some new books on my list, thank you!!
Amber H said:
OH MY GAAAAAAAAWD how did I miss all these updates?!
You watched Crash Landing on You?!?! Dude, I’ve been BINGING kdramas for the last 15 MONTHS. Crash was one of my absolute FAVORITES! Please hit me up if you need new recs. I have an entire journal dedicated to the kdramas I’ve watched so far. There are so many amazing shows and they’ve literally helped me survive quarantine and the rest of the world’s madness up til now!
I cannot WAIT for Cowboy Bites! I’ve missed so many of your characters and have had such a hard time getting into reading lately when I used to devour a book a day. I’m already counting down to release day. Until then I’ll be watching more kdramas and wishing for my own Captain Ri. Hahaha
Nicole Carver said:
Well no wonder you didn’t get any writing done 😂. I’m exhausted just reading everything you’ve accomplished in just a short time. Glad to hear your knee is feeling better, keep up the good work of getting back out and walking. I like to think that I am crafty but then I buy kits to try and my attention span does not allow for me to finish any of them. I am a psychiatric travel nurse and just renewed my contract in North Carolina. I did New Years down at Disney and in one short week I’ll be visiting New Orleans for the first time, I can’t wait. Knowing we are limited with what we can do with COVID I am looking forward to the food and alcohol. Books have definitely been my escape through all the madness that has seemed to surround us all this past year and I can not thank you enough for being the very best at what you do.
Angel Hollmeyer Crum said:
January was busy for you!! Loved seeing all your adventures! My month was boring, I worked and read a couple of books!
Michelle Holden said:
Your crafts look amazing. I used to make a lot of my cards, but I have not made that many in the last couple of years. I did find this hilariously funny and naughty card company called “Muddy Mouth Cards.” I have ordered from them at least 6 times since early December. I have 2 friends that are not working (for the most part) since the pandemic hit for them, I try to mail them a card every week (Luckily for me I work for a Utility and we are “essential” we have been crazy busy and I have worked so much OT that I’m exhausted (3 days this week and I did over 10 hours OT), I usually work 4 x10’s and feel like I’m brain dead by the time I get off work.
I have watched several shows off my DVR, I love taping shows and then can fast forward through the commercials.
The weather here in Las Vegas was crazy! Today is beautiful upper 60’s low 70’s but just last week parts of town got several inches of snow, I live by Sunrise Mountain so it is a little warmer here but we got a ton of rain, we needed it we had over 290 days without measurable rain so I guess now we wait to see if we break this record. I am totally looking forward to our 100+ temps (I’m crazy)
The only books I’ve read have been yours, another reread of Shoulda Been A Cowboy and I was lucky enough to get an ARC of Cowboy Bites and loved it. I read it last night. I was only on about 3 hours sleep last night and stayed up ’til about Midnight to finish it–LOVED it! Love the slices of life and I cannot wait to try a Slutty Mermaid as well as some of the other recipes too.
Have a great day
Lynne Lee said:
Like you I have avoided the news and social media. Most of our weather has been cold and rainy. I am counting down the days until the new book is released!! Love your crafts and the necklace is beautiful.
Christine said:
I’m with you, I retreated to my little bubble & hunkered down this month. I did a lot of baking & reading & asked my husband if we could just go live in a cave without people, media or internet. Of course, he brought up that would mean no Amazon & I altered my request to leave internet service intact. I mean geez, who can live in today’s world without Amazon!?!?! Beautiful job with the embroidery! 💕
Leslie Smith said:
I’m a teacher and January we switched from 5 weeks if full remote teaching to hybrid. I spent much of my time teaching myself the tech while teaching the kids. Trained our puppy (Huckleberry) to use a bell to signal he has to go out. He’s doing well. I spent the end of January prepping for my kids’ birthdays in February. Didn’t really do much… ugh, I’m boring myself. Love your crafting; can’t wait for my kids to be a bit older so I have time to focus on crafting.
karen s said:
wont be long it will be spring, pretty necklace
Barb Sandusky said:
That temperature you talked about for today is crazy!! I am originally from AZ and now live in SC so I know nothing about that cold of weather!! I’ve been making masks for my crafting this month. My husband is a teacher and has to wear them every day. I hand sew them because my machine broke. I look forward to getting back to my cross stitch and scrapbooking someday but I’m fine right now. Like you I’ve been glued to the news after what happened last month. I watch a few HGTV shows but nothing notable. I do like 911 slabs 911 Lonestar!!! Great season opener for both!!
Enjoy your week!!!
Teresa Green said:
After a fairly mild South Dakota winter, this cold is a bummer. Thanks for the recipes. Between Covid and the cold, hibernating after a good meal sounds good. Really want to try that cheese pizza and, of course, the chocolate crescent rolls (did I mention chocolate)!
Stacy G said:
I listened to a bunch of audio books and knitted a bunch of hats. And yes Robert Petkoff is the BEST narrator I’ve ever heard. And it doesn’t hurt that Kresley Cole is super talented. Love your crafting. And I too have never seen Kill Bill 1 or 2. Never had the desire.
Stay warm!
Kristen said:
The food looks good. I may have to try the chocolate chip crescent
Karen Clementi said:
January, did that even happen??? And I’m curious about the pizza crust – what is is made of? Gluten free?? looks amazing – I managed to read only a couple of books in January, I’m trying to get into audibles, and I’m also getting to read Caged this month – love al of your series. Your embroidery is great! I used to do that, but started reading instead, lol. Have a great weekend!
Michele said:
I love seeing the needlework & crafts. I spent January taking Zoom crocheting lessons from a friend. My conclusion? Maybe I should stick to paper crafts. 😂
I did do lots of cooking. My favorite was a shepherds pie that I made from ground beef that needed cooking and some potatoes that were starting to go. Let’s hear it for creativity!
I also listened to the I Want You series in January & really enjoyed them. Great narration!
Can’t wait for Cowboy Bites!
Jodi Wresh said:
I have been doing alot of decluttering and cleaning, watching old shows on Pluto TV and Tubi. Only took walks when it is nice out but right now the temp in Minnesota is -6 degrees and on Monday it is supposed to plunge to -35 degrees. BRResota.
Kellie said:
Our temps are in the 60’s and going to fall to the 30’s overnight. Texas is up and down all the time. Next week, East Texas is expecting temps in the 20’s…….brrrr,……. I moved south for a reason and that was to escape these temps.
I work as a budget coordinator so I have been working 10-12 hour days since COVID hit us. In the evenings, I relax/destress with my husband and read as much as possible.
On weekends, I have been cooking new diabetic recipes for my husband in my Instapot, baking, sewing aprons/face masks and renovating some rooms. Hopefully, spring break will bring some warm weather so I can work outdoors.
2021 did not start out well but I swear after turning “60”in August, a third grandbaby due after my birthday and retirement, it will end with a “BANG”.
Shelly said:
Work and home for me January actually seemed to go by quite quickly. Now February is starting vary cold here in Wisconsin. Some nice projects you completed
Misty Yarneau said:
January was my birthday so my kids came by separately which was nice. I have promised them we will eat at my traditional birthday restaurant “Christie’s Seafood” in Houston. I purchased a couple of wooden Christmas ornament kits but haven’t done more than stare at them 🤷🏻♀️ We cut the cord from cable and have been trying to figure out the whole streaming thing. I watched Bridgerton and am almost finished with Reign. It is funny because I don’t usually read Regency romance but these Bridgerton caught my fancy and Netflix suggested Reign. This month I read “Lethal Game” from Christine Feehan. Love me some GhostWalkers. I have to find other hot men to fill my time while I wait for the next installment of our favorite McKays🤠
Kel said:
I spent January wishing for some snow. Its been 5 years since we had a decent snow storm in Maryland. I did start binge watching the chicago series. I started with chicago pd and now im onto chicago fire.
Lori said:
January was mostly work, recovering from a rotator cuff injury and watching Crash Landing on You. OMG what an awesome series! Thank you for recommending it.
Leanne Murgatroyd said:
Omg you’ve done a life time of STUFF in a month! Lol
Apart from all my Lorelei & Lori e-books I’ve kinda gone off reading 😱🤷♀️ I have been toying with the audible should I/could I will I won’t I …. I have a 2.5 yr old Great niece so I’ve been playing with her and she’s VERY VERY independent and a EXTREMELY quick learner. She loves drawing, playgrounds, reading books to me (in her 2.5yrs gibberish) and BLUEY!!! I’m Australian I live in Queensland, has anyone heard of our funny little kids show called BLUEY. It’s worth a google search if your curious.
Last September I started exercising in an over 50’s gym so far I’ve lost 12kg woo hoo! I’ve watched BRIDGERTON, FATE: THE WINX SAGA, THE QUEENS GAMBIT, VIKINGS, COBRA KAI, and finally got to watch YELLOWSTONE and now Ive got prime amazon just to watch THE STAND!!! I’m a full on Stephen King fan yes I know he’s a love him or hate him icon. I read The Stand back in 1988/89 when I was pregnant with my first child and doesn’t love Whoopi & Alexander Skarsgard, win win. With my emphasis on my health we have a fresh food box delivery 📦 🚚 company called HELLO FRESH. They provide meals for up to 5 days with fresh ingredients and recipes for you to cook at home delivered straight to your door. Not meal planning other than designing your meals by taping a screen, no shopping 🛒 no crowed checkouts. Ive been doing this for 3 mths and now that our covid restrictions have lessened I’ve paused my HELLO FRESH because I do miss shopping, mind you I give myself 3 wks before I’m back ordering online lol. My goals for February are more swimming at the beach, I’m like a 15min walk to beach, start reading new books again and start exploring my state of Queensland to do my part for tourism (because we can’t travel overseas) also I’m going to go on an adventure with a dear friend to Darwin so excited. Can’t wait to read what everyone else is up to for February stay safe everyone 💜
Ellen Bartel said:
Hello! Your balsamic pork looks really good! I do a balsamic pork in the crockpot but yours looks better. I haven’t made any new recipes lately. My hubby and I did build a backsplash in our kitchen which I must say looks amazing! As for Tarantino films one of my all time favorite movies is True Romance, if you haven’t seen it you should. You might like it. I haven’t watched any movies but have watched The Queen’s Gambit, Game of Thrones (again) and now watching Atypical, which is really good. Ofcourse the superbowl will be on in my house tomorrow and we’ll be celebrating my birthday too!
Dana said:
The start of 2021 was about the same as most of 2020……..I was stuck at home!! I have to admit well I like it I am getting sick of always the same. Looking forward to warmer weather!!!!
Joy said:
Traveled around attending my son’s basketball games. Work…work…work.
Brenda Witt said:
I did a lot of cooking too. Ham and bean soup, cabbage rolls, chicken
croissants, baking cinnamon bread. I read, and I’ve been crocheting Afghan for my grandchildren. Beautiful necklace too!
Jamie Davis said:
Looks like you kept very busy. I feel like an underachiever. Looking forward to Cowboy Bites and whatever you write next!
Bobbie kearse said:
I am loving the monthly wrap up! It’s always fun
Pamela Gomes said:
January marks the final month in the grant year which means projecting for leftover funds and figuring out how to spend it for the program. In addition, we decided to replace two classrooms which is always a FUN time (not). So, the month is paperwork, virtual meetings, and such. On the plus side, I discovered a local distillery that opened this year and their products include bourbon done in wine casks. Yummy. Looking forward to a bit of calmness in February.
Latifa Morrisette said:
I mainly stressed about moving.
Tia said:
January is kind of a blur to me. We had two snow storms where the shovels had to be broken out. Even though we just had snow and getting more tomorrow, it’s been a mild winter in the north east. I read Submissive Angel by Joey W. Hill and loved it. Thanks to my car constantly visiting the mechanic, I’ve been walking more. So, on the bright side I’ve been more active.
JulayneS said:
Love love love your needlework!!! I’ve done cross stitch and really like it, but would love to try the beadwork you do! Might have to message you for “how to” not screw up beadwork, or watch YouTube! 🤣
Lisa said:
January for me was cooking on Saturday and Sundays to freeze food for later, working as usual and trying to declutter. Read a lot as usual, usually five books a week but usually on audio/Bluetooth. I like Serena Bowen too. I’m not into sci-fi or paranormal, but like westerns and strong characters. Can’t wait for your cookbook and more books to read! Have read them all over and over again and again. At Christmas bought four of your books for my son’s girlfriend as she loves to read too. I’m going to start on a braided rug and then make another rug loom to make a rug on it or maybe a wall hanging. Still haven’t made quilt out of parents’ clothes I kept for that. Maybe February I can get more crafts done. Will try out the pork recipe though. The necklace is beautiful!
You should watch this-will make you happy LOL. (Some eye candy.)
https://youtu.be/Jz1j38S00H0
Cindy said:
Just staying home. Although I ended up in the hospital with fluid around my heart
Cheri said:
Spent a good part of January recovering from Covid since we got it right before Christmas. Switched over to more whole foods and less processed stuff so my Instant Pot and my new Cuisinart air fryer/toaster oven have been getting a workout.
Just listened to my first audio book this past week. I have read several Brian Freeman and Dean Koontz books the past few months.
I have been crocheting while watching Bridgerton and Madam Secretary and have to checkout that new Star Trek!
Sonya said:
I’ve been keeping my granddaughter every afternoon. I started an embroidery project. It will become a baby quilt.
Tried to bake chocolate gingerbread men but they weren’t very good. Did find an excellent recipe for sweet potato biscuits! & added honey butter. They were great!!
I’ve read lots of books this month.
-Misadventures of a College Student & misadventures of a Night Shift by Lauren Rowe
-Trouble by Any Name by A T Butler
-Temporary Engagement series #1-4 by Megan Bryce
-Invincible, Midnight Rider, Protector, Untamed, Courageous, Undaunted, Texas Proud, circle of Gold by Diana Palmer
-Wound Tight by Lorelei James
-One Hot Crush by Ann Durand
-The education of Dixie Dupree by Donna Everhart
It’s been a great month!!
Christi said:
I can’t wait to get my copy of Cowboy Bites! I love the food pictures, and now I know exactly what I am going to do with that can of croissants in my fridge. I love to see your recommendations for movies, TV, and books since I am always looking to try something new. Your crafting projects are amazing and I wish I had a thimble-full of your talent. I really need to pick up some project since it is a wind chill of -22 degrees here in Minnesota today! We are now in the month of stupid cold and I am planning to stay in my house as much as possible.
Debbie Rice said:
We have been doing the same getting out for Dr.appointments and occasionally going to a restaurant to eat beautiful necklace thank you so much for the opportunity and your generosity.
Sheryl Cassell said:
I’m the babysitter for my daughter (a teacher) & hubby. So Monday thru Friday I’m up at 6:30 to drive to their house, fix breakfast for my 2 grandkids, get them dressed & ready to face the day. My granddaughter, Eliza 8, gets her bus at 8:45. So glad she is back in school & not doing remote learning – that was really difficult for both of us. Then it’s just my very active grandson, Jameson 3. Two days each week he goes to day care so he can play with other kids & I get a few hours to myself on those days. The three other days it just the two of us & I do whatever I can to keep him happy, fed & entertained. I usually get home around 4:30. This isn’t exactly how I thought my retirement would go but I’m happy that I can help my daughter & her family.
Rochelle said:
January has definitely been a stay at home month for me. We turned the tv off. So we have had plenty of time to read and listen to music. I think this is the first month in a year I didn’t listen to one of your books. I’ve listened to all of the Rough Riders series except for one because I haven’t been able to find it. The last few month I would listen to some of them over again. I’ve started the legacy series and the Black top cowboys. I did read Keep Sharp by Sanjay Gupta. It was very enlightening read about the brain. Been worried about my parents and memory. So what I did learn was I need to exercise…walk at least. So I’ve been trying to walk everyday. I’ve been sitting to much. The weather has been crazy all over the place. I did get to visit with parents and grand babies. I love my boys! I haven’t made anything but I have thought about it. Lol
Danielle Cole said:
Well, unlike a lot of people, I’m still working 5 days a week. Just work, work, work! So my January has been the same ole same ole. I definitely make time to read though. It may not be every day but I still read a couple of books a week. 💕On a good note, my 25th wedding anniversary was this past Tuesday so that was great!💕Hope all is well with everyone out there! Stay safe and thank you for the opportunity to win that lovely necklace.
Linda Herold said:
January has been cold in Northern CA! I am happy that I don’t live where I have to shovel snow! I have been staying at home watching movies and basketball. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Joey said:
Here in the UK we spent the whole of January in lockdown! However, as a teacher I’ve been in school every day looking after key worker children.
I’m so pleased that I’m not the only one who can’t stand inception! I told Mr Y quite firmly that I wouldn’t be wasting my time with tenet as it s
seems to be more of the same baffling nonsense!
x
Amy Perrault said:
In January we had a couple snow falls & had family time shoveling a big area. We relaxed & went out for some drives & shopped only where it was needed because we have a lockdown till next week. I had an on the phone Dr. appointment & it was good news in some ways but not all. I just can’t wait till things go back to normal.
Sylvain Perrault said:
Last month I didn’t do much but work & go grocery shopping. Next week the lockdown here is suppose to end but my daughter is doing online schooling. I spent most time playing on an online league of hockey.
Tiss Johnson said:
Not much fun in January. I went from the house, to the garage for the 4 wheeler and then to the barn, or the corral. Calving started Dec 31 and it’s been non stop. Have 135 head on the ground, with some ups and downs. I didn’t take any pictures yet, cause I”m not in the mood. I have done some crocheting in between barn runs. We started feeding in the late afternoons in hopes that the cows will calve during the day instead of at night. Kind of works. I tired. I tape Blue Bloods and NCIS and watch when I’m on night duty, which is every night. Makes for long days. We’ve been spoiled by the weather. Been pretty nice until this week.
Larri said:
January flew by for me. I had surgery in the midst of packing and making arrangements to move from the east coast to the west coast. It was super stressful, but it’s done!
The weather in Raleigh was cold with a little snow, but the weather in Seattle is rainy (shocker!), and a little bit warmer.
Elisa A said:
Like you, spent the first half of January glued to the TV or reading all the click-bait about all that was going on.
I’m halfway through the Ruth Bader Ginsburg book by Jane Sherman De Hart. It’s a 24 hr audiobook! I just can’t do it all straight. I can only listen to about 30 mins a day! Mainly because when I’m listening, I can’t multi-task, I really have to pay attention. It really gets into a lot of details about the work she did.
Also spent a lot of time in the kitchen. I bought a huge 27 lb pork leg (it was on sale for $0.49/lb – tell me you would have walked past it!) When I got it home, I spent a few hrs cutting it off the bone and then into smaller portions. Then spent the next week making pork tagine, pulled pork, roast pork, carnitas, Char Siu, and still had some left to freeze for future meals! I also cleaned out the freezer to defrost it, and had a whole chicken, a prime rib roast, and some lamb chops that needed to get used up.
Then, because I never got around to it in the fall, I finally made jam. I have my own raspberry and blackberry plants. But because of the way they harvest, I get about a pint to a quart a day for about 5 weeks. So anything that we don’t eat right away gets put into the freezer to be made into jam at some later date.
Temperature hasn’t been as cold here. We’re 19F tonight.
I’m gearing up for the big football game tomorrow. I’m excited because this will be the 1st year since we started hosting it 11 yrs ago (when we got the biggest TV amongst our friends) that we will be watching it by ourselves. That means I will finally get to sit in the best seat in the house to watch the game! Finally!!! 🙂
sarah said:
i will like a chance to win the necklace thanks
Audrey Stewart said:
I had an eye doctor appointment and that was it. We stayed home as much as possible because of Covid-19. I also hate the cold. My cats hate the cold. Even my cars hates the cold. I’m in the south and we all struggle with it. If it snows here, this city shuts down.
Debra Guyette said:
January was quiet. I did get to celebrate my birthday. We ate outside on a warm day.
Lisa Rounsley said:
January was long!! Have enjoyed the mild weather and traveled north to the middle of BFE to be with my man, very secluded ❤️
Kathleen O'Donnell said:
January was up and down for me. I had a couple of Doctor appointments and I help a good friend with the transition of having to put her husband in a nursing home. The rest of the month was just staying in and reading and watching TV or listening to music while reading. Kept up with family and friends by phone. I am starting to do a bit of Yoga. My oldest niece has become an instructor and I have been supporting her, even though I don’t think Yoga is my thing.. Not a limber enough in my old age. But I’m trying.
Amber said:
I somehow pinched a nerve in my back the beginning of January and spent most of the month just trying to function. I definitely don’t recommend it to anyone. I did end up reading quite a few books and binge watching Netflix. I’ve never been super crafty, but yours always turn out awesome!
Kelly Mullins said:
The food looks amazing. The necklace is beautiful. Hoping you are staying warm in the frigid temps.
Valerie Swiger said:
Love your blogs! Bought and read your entire collection very early in the pandemic and am hoping for your cookbook for my birthday in March!
Linda M Grove said:
Out of all the posting you did there in the letter…have to say the artsy stuff was my fav..u r super talented there…the fuck the dumb shit is my fav…its my saying…so goes WITHout saying..love the hell outta this…got shots in hit so I could walk again…that sucked..the shots..the pain gone..ROCKS…doing yardwork as in TX ….we are good to go with the weather..sort of…enough that we can go outside without winter gear….working on the house..cause seriously what else are you gonna do with this COVID crap…so going for a procedure…and they tell me I’m positive for COVID..wtf? umm how? They say who have you come into contact with..I said..YOU…yeah that’s who..that’s all…hubby and daughter? Negative..me NOT SICK..them..you still got it..ummm..ok..my sisters’ who are RN Nurses..its a false positive and happens ALOT..ok…SHOOT ME…but NOT sick..so no matter what..can’t beat that with a dead stick…js…reading like crazy…rereading series…especially my favs..could do that a million times…just waiting for 2 weeks to get my fix for new..hope y’all are having a gr8 New Year!
Ellen said:
There are lots of comments here, not sure if I missed the announcement!
Linda Fast said:
Ontario has been in Lockdown since Boxing Day and the weather has been very cold. With no place to go I am busy purging my apartment which I have been living in for 25 years. I cannot believe the amount of junk that I have got in there.
I wish I had been creative as you have been. All your activities sound fantastic. January seemed to fly away quickly and February seems that way also.