Thursday, November 4, 2021

Nesting - Home Body - What Say You?

 I am a big homebody.  I got used to being home a lot when G was here.  I wanted to be close by in case he needed me or something.  I took care of the home and yard - so I stayed busy.
I have gotten even more of a homebody since he has been gone.  Crazy sounding.  First I just didn't feel like leaving, then 2020 happened and now I am just comfy staying home.
I had a niece ask me what do I do for a social life.   Huh? - What is this thing you speak of???  LOL
I do go out now and then with others for a meal - I talk with neighbors - I see family now and then - that is about it.  I miss nothing really.  Am I a hermit now?  Maybe - I call myself a homebody!

Nesting is what many call it.  Taking care of our homes, our pets, our families, ourselves, and doing whatever makes us feel comforted and safe.
Yep that is me.  NOW I worry about my kitties being fed and comfortable - my energies go to them now that I have no one else here to take care of.

                 NOT my pic.  This just looks like a lovely place to read or just sit and think or crochet.
Cozy and simple

Having a warm house, food to nourish my body, comfy blankets and books to read, and my pets to love - seems like bliss to me.  It doesn't take much to make me happy.

The weather has changed a lot the past few days.  It is COLD in the dark mornings when I go out to feed the cats.  It is even chilly with the sun out.  Fall has fallen!!!!!!  The leaves are changing and falling now.  Tuesday I had huge beautiful pots of flowers blooming, now they are just limp pieces of yuck!  
I am now in the mood to eat comfort food, wear sweatshirts and slippers and I think I am ready to craft some.
I don't do much crafting when it is warm out.  I think I will start the small quilts (for littles) this weekend for their gifts.  They get so much and need nothing.  They love naps and they love their baby dolls.  So each will get a nap quilt and one for baby as well!


I have several (dozens) of books that I can read.  Many I have purchased over the past few years and been gifted some as well.  I have antique books that I inherited many, many years ago that have never been read.  No problem finding reading materials at my house.
I have many old classic movies recorded - that need to be watched.
I have craft supplies.  I have enough items to get most if not all of the homemade holiday goodies made.
Yep, I think I am pretty good!

I do want to take a few hours one day soon and go to the little burg up the road.  Main Street has lots of little businesses that sell all kinds of used/antique/craft items.  Might need to get a few specialty items.
I think I may go to a couple ethnic groceries as well - and find some unique things for goody bags!  
That will be fun.

So, what do you call this time of year?  
Are you a nester or homebody?   
What things do you look forward to doing during the dark, cooler and icky days of winter?
I know I can't be the only one who feels the most comfortable staying home and being in my own little bubble.
I am so thankful for my warm home - my sanctuary and for contentment.


Fun is all in the eye of the beholder!!!!!!  DO what makes YOU happy!!!!!!


53 comments:

  1. I'm definitely a homebody. Interior designer, Nate Berkus, says your home should rise up to greet you at the end of the day. That's how I feel about my home. I'm inspired to create a home that I never want to take a vacation from. My home is where I rejuvenate, restore, rest and relax. In retirement, my purpose is to look after myself and my home. Prior to retirement, I was always punching the clock to get things done and now all the "chores" can be done more mindfully. We go hard in spring, summer and fall and snow means slow. I look forward to watching tv/movies, reading good books by the fire, slow-cooking and winter projects like organizing photos. I have a prayer that I offer to the universe - Thank you for the home in my heart, my home in the hills and the people who lead me there.

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    1. I like that - "your home should rise up to greet you". Same here. This is my comfortable place - I can do what I want when I want and how I want. Don't like it - don't care!
      I love your explanation. Wise words and so true.
      I love the prayer - that pretty much sums things up.

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    2. Great comment, I copied down your prayer, really lovely. Thank you for sharing.

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  2. I am a homebody too. Your life sounds wonderful to me!

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    1. Thanks - it is as good as can be for just being me and the babies. I like my solitude.
      I guess I did enough partying and socializing when I was young!!!

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  3. I am most definitely a homebody.. A social life? I think I had one when I was 21? LOL... Im 51 now and don't know what that is ..I love being in my home, caring for it, decorating it, tweeking it, cleaning out etc. I have SO many books I need to read. I keep buying them and now that the cooler weather is finally moving I hope to be able to start reading some of them.

    I also crochet a lot too.. I love cozy winter days at home and sometimes I will even put the fireplace on..I am definitely a homebody and an introvert

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    1. Love it. Same here - did a lot of socializing and partying back in the day. Those days are done. Give me quiet.
      I keep thinking about getting one of those electric fireplace things I see - just the thought of a fireplace sounds cozy. I have never had one.
      I think you have it right!

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  4. This is an interesting post today, Cheryl. I could be called a homebody or even a hermit, but it's not by choice. Born 3rd out of 4 children, with big age gaps between us, and having cousins live with us from time to time, I grew up with a lot of people around. Plenty of social activity, too. We moved a lot, but always made friends quickly.

    Last Saturday evening, my DH and I had our first date night in a few months. We went to a back country restaurant that was packed to overflowing, both for inside and outside seating. It brought us so much joy that it was oddly emotional, because it felt "normal." I miss that. I like people... well... happy, positive, friendly people. I like smiling faces and laughter. The sounds of children playing and having fun. Music. Talking. Celebration.

    Oh, I like my home, too, and have always tried to make it a comfortable oasis. I like quiet time and reading books, baking or cooking or crafting, but I crave in person interaction like hot coffee on a cold, foggy morning. Even if that's just a quick chat with the cashier at the grocery store. When we got our flu shots, the pharmacist chatted with us for a good 10 minutes, so I know I'm not alone in that. I'm okay at home, and grateful daily, yet have felt cut off and lonely for well over a year. --Elise

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    1. I LOVE that you feel that. We are all so different and there are those who love socializing and being around others and those who don't so much.
      I used to love being around folks and camping with friends and having get togethers. Now when I plan something, I am thinking "I wish I could just stay home".
      I changed over the years. This last year just proved I like the solitary life.
      I like chatting with cashiers or strangers at the store - but I really don't miss it if it doesn't happen.

      I love that you are a social being - you make the world more exciting! I hope you can get out more and enjoy the world.

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    2. Thank you, Cheryl. From your lips to God's ears! One of the reasons we chose the place to retire that we did is because, although remote, rustic and rural, there's a strong sense of community. With church groups and families filling the local diner after Sunday services and Denny's just as busy. Even when snow has started to fall. Being mistaken for locals during our visits has been icing on the cake.

      Happiness may not be where society is (or seems) right now, but life is so short and I believe we can BE happy if we decide to be. Having seen it firsthand, I know that's true.
      --Elise

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    3. Your description - remote, rustic and rural sounds heavenly. If I had my druthers, that is where I would be. What a wonderful compliment to be taken as a local.

      You are so right - so much of society seems angry, not happy. For me, it is a frame of mind and why would I want to spend my days all angry and nasty - when I could just as easily be happy. We make our own little corner or piece of the world.

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  5. Definite hermit and homebody since my husband passed, when he was here had busy work and social life. Back then I wanted to be home more. I am more than happy to be home. I also have pets, dogs for me. I have trouble making myself go out even when I need to. I like you have a good pantry and cook from scratch. When I do go out I try to plan all errands. I like to get everything done so I don't have to go out often. I love winter, cozy in the house with books, comfort food and the pups. Don't need much to be content.I think you would enjoy the fireplace. I have real one I have not used much since my husband passed but I am thinking I am going to use it this year because it really is enjoyable. I need to get some wood delivered. Was thinking of that last night as our weather has finally started to cool. Best wishes!

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    1. I think I have become more so since hubbies passing as well. Like you try to plan trips to maximize gas and time. I talk myself out of going out a lot!
      I may give a fireplace some serious thought. It really never entered my mind until today!
      Contentment is lovely - it says so much about you. Take care.

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  6. I'm a homebody too, for the most part, though I do miss being able to travel. I know that things have opened up some but I'm not quite ready to venture too far.

    Plus there is always lots to be done around here. I can't understand people who say they are bored.

    Take care, stay well.

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    1. I know! Sure there are days I don't do much - but bored isn't really in my vocabulary.
      I am not ready to venture far either. Never been a big traveler - so I am not missing that.
      You take care as well.

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  7. Very much an introvert homebody, as is my husband. My home is my sanctuary. The last person in my house was a plumber over a year ago. I love it nice and cozy and snug; not too big and not too small. Lots and lots of books to read, Husband has old movies and lots of publications to read. Making quilts and crocheting. Cooking and baking (pumpkin cookies later this afternoon!) I do go out most weekdays for a walk on the local trail, loving the sound of the creek and the birds. I enjoy winter when life slows down and everything takes a rest. It rejuvenates me for spring and the growing season.

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    1. Glad to see you post - I was thinking of you a couple hours ago.
      Your world sounds lovely to me.
      I am outside at LEAST 6 times a day 365 days a year. So I get fresh air and sunshine and I hear and watch nature.
      I think like nature, we all need the rest as well. Bodies and minds.
      Take care

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    2. Funny, I was thinking of you earlier today when I saw lots of bittersweet along the walking trail.

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    3. OH MAN!!!!! I would love to have seen that! Great minds!!!!!

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  8. I love being at home - it's my comfortable place.I do go out and about but I'm Happy at Home

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    1. ME TOO!
      Some people act like they hate their homes - I love mine with all its little quirks. I feel safe here.
      Glad you are Happy at Home as well!

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  9. We are too. I think it is really widespread now since when we do go out we wonder where all the traffic is these days.

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    1. I see lots of traffic - our interstates are full of semi's. Amazes me. I hear all this talk about no trucks - not here. Any where I go - I have to cross over an Interstate and as far as you can see is trucks both ways!!

      I do think more and more people retired and just have decided to kick back.

      Cars every where.

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  10. Sounds like my little piece of heaven, too!

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    1. Love it. I do believe many of us are just so comfortable being home and nesting.

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  11. I got an electric fireplace at lowes a few years back. It has an option to turn off the heat and just see the fake flames. This doesn't raise the electric bill and so cozy. Love to turn on when its snowing and sometimes I do use the heat option too

    You would love it! Go take a look at them and judge for yourself. It has added so much ambience and coziness to our home

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    1. Sounds lovely. I just may do that. I would have to get rid of some furniture to have one - so I will consider it.
      Thanks

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  12. I feel the same about staying home and I feel fortunate that I can be happy with a simple life. I've discovered as I've gotten older that it's okay to say "No" to invitations. A group of my friends spend so much time and money going to restaurants and I will join them occassionally but not often. That's an expensive form of entertainment! I've always been able to entertain myself and feel lucky about that! An electric fireplace sounds so nice. I'm in Arizona and we're having cooler nights but still warm days. Enjoyed this post Cheryl and have a nice weekend!

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    1. I think we definitely change as we get older. I used to love being out and about. Not so much now. It is a gift to be able to entertain one's self.
      Thanks

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  13. We are homebodies but only during the week. On weekends we go out. Still staying away from big crowds though. There is so much to do at home and we are always busy. I think we've gotten to be bigger nesters since the pandemic hit and we're okay with that. We have everything we need at home in books, TV, internet, food etc. We do get a little antsy and like to go out on the weekends, but after the weekend we are happy to be home.

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    1. That is nice that you can get away and enjoy when you want. We have so many things at our finger tips today - that it is much easier to entertain ourselves at home.

      So many had such a hard time over the past year or so, for me it was just normal.

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  14. Definitely a homebody here especially during winter. I do not like the cold weather and now that I am retired, I find it especially comforting to watch others in the neighborhood going to work in the cold, snowy mornings while I sit in my pjs and drink my coffee. I am a big reader and crafter so those are the pasttimes that occupy my nesting times. In Spring and Summer, I am always outside and traveling so the cold weather months are when I recharge my batteries.

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    1. It is nice to have that recharge time! I don't like winter weather either. I watch the neighbors as well and think "thank goodness". LOL
      Great to have winter projects and interests to keep busy.

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  15. I feel very blessed to be at home and I am grateful for this time in my life. I would rather live with less and be home. Like many of you, I enjoy reading, nesting, and various crafts. Life really can be so beautiful with a slower pace at home.

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    1. YES - so many think you have to go and go. Slow pace can be wonderful - one just needs to embrace it.
      Thanks!

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  16. I am a homebody as well...so is my DH...when I had to work for many years, I longed for the day when I could "stay home" like I did when raising the boys. Funny thing--we were always on the go-go-go with 3 kids and all the activities, plus socializing back then. But I did not have an outside job at that time.

    When I retired 8 years ago I realized my longings were for real. I love being home. DH retired 2 years ago and he loves being home, too. We didn't realize that we are both introverts---but had to put on a good show every day due to our jobs...I in retail, he as a teacher. The pandemic was our best excuse ever!!

    We love our home and surroundings, feel safe with a full pantry and freezer, and enjoy each other's company. Life is good!

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    1. YAY another homebody! It is funny how we do what we have to - to get by working. Socialization is a given then.
      It is nice to have that choice after retirement. You are right - we were all given an excuse - I will continue on in the same way.
      Yes mam - Life is good.

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  17. I had to keep rereading to see if you was talking about yourself or me! LOL. Before the pandemic I would have never believed I would be so content sitting in my chair, talking to Gramps on occasion, LOL. 24 hours together and you both know just what the other one has done all day. I too have lots of books, material, recipes for snacks and warm slippers. Can't imagine what else I need for the winter.

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    1. G and I were that way. Talking was less than most - we knew everything about each others day already!
      Slow pace, quiet, and comfort has much to be appreciated.
      Nice to have that simply satisfying lifestyle!

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  18. Another excellent post with good responses! We are definitely homebodies, not desiring to go anywhere fancy. We have plenty to keep us busy with gardening, cooking (and cleaning up the mess!), reading and little projects around the house and yard. Speaking of books, Angela Ganote on FOX59 this morning interviewed the author (Mitch Albom) who wrote "the stranger in the lifeboat". The library has it so I'm eager to read it.

    Can you believe the nice weather we are having? Sixty-seven one day next week. Ole Jim says we are below average temperature but I'll take what we have.

    When we went to Danville the other day, we stopped at Beasley's Orchard and picked up some frozen persimmon pulp. I have my mother's recipe for persimmon pudding. On the farm where I grew up, we had two persimmon trees, cherry trees and loads of morels in the spring.

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    1. So much around to keep us all busy. I love Mitch Albom, he is a wonderful Christian author. I saw that - it sounds like a good one to read.

      Next week looks to be lovely! The longer the nice the less of the bad.
      My Mom used to make that as well. I thought about getting pulp at Adrian's Orchard and making it for brother and sis. Sis shouldn't have it with her sugar problem and I think brother is the only one at his home that eats it. I was not a huge fan - but I sure remember how good it smelled!!!!

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  19. I've let this post sit on my desktop for awhile, as it's been something that's been on my mind for awhile. Hubs and I had a good social life on weekends, and during the week we commuted together. Immediately after his passing, I became a homebody -- it's where I found comfort and it was a place of healing. After relocating, I became involved with a widows group and truly enjoy having a group to go out to dinner with, or go to a summer concert, etc., but the group now has new leadership and is hosting more and more activities, to the point that you could go to an event 7 days a week, with multiple events on some days. Members can pick and choose what you want to participate in; some attend more than others. But, if all you do is go, go, go, are you really healing or are you using the activities to fill that void, to the point that you'll never really heal? For now, I'm being more selective in my outside activities. I enjoy being home with a good book or movie. I enjoy entertaining family and select friends with whom I have a good relationship. My pantry is well stocked and, come winter, I really don't need to go anywhere, except if I want fresh produce for salads and other perishables (milk, coffee cream, eggs).

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    1. I really like and agree with your logic. I had many tell me shortly after G's passing I needed to get out and do things to take my mind off everything. It was obvious they had never lost a spouse. Get my mind off things?????? REALLY?
      Home is where we were together and that gives me comfort to this day.
      I love that you joined in the group and took an interest and sought out the group. But now I think you may need that alone time. Doing too much can be so overwhelming. It sounds like you are playing this very wisely.
      You continue to do what works for you -not everyone else. Groups come and go - solace, real friends and family are priceless.

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  20. Pretty much a nester here, especially as winter draws in. I love lighting candles, turning on my fake fireplace and knitting or crafting away.

    God bless.

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    1. I lit candles today - love the smell in fall and winter.
      Sounds like a perfect scene to me.

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  21. I am definitely a homebody, which wasn’t always true, but ever since the pandemic has been. I like it though, I can find so much to do here that I do not get bored lol

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    1. Glad that it suited you well. Some people had a hard time with it. Home is where the heart is!

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  22. I could be very happy at home if there were windows where I can see clouds, birds, green things growing. Tommy has small, all covered! At my home I had a picture window at least 8 feet long. I could see what was happening in my side yard that was full of greenery, birds, nests, just a lot of nature.

    So, despite the pain, I stand in the doorway. Every day, we go out, maybe just to the park to sit amongst trees.

    I love being home and probably am boring. But, home suits me since I don't work, anyway.

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    1. Oh that would drive me crazy! As soon as the sun is out, I am opening blinds to see outside.
      You have found a way with the door and the park - so that is good. I truly think we need to see the green and nature and sunshine. It keeps us healthier.
      I love being home as well - boring - well maybe. You know what> Who cares? It is your life - do what you like.

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  23. Somehow I missed this post on Thursday, so I'm late to the discussion. I'm a homebody, absolutely yearned for it many years ago when I was a single mother and had to work to keep us fed.

    Now, spouse and I are in our 70s and have two cats that are like grandchildren, and honestly, we do want to take one more trip to Scandinavia to finish off our travels. But, besides the pandemic, we are really struggling with leaving the cats. I know it sounds crazy, but in our minds they don't understand why we are gone. We do have somebody who can feed them, but it's not the same as having "mom and dad" here.

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    1. I so understand your delimna over leaving your kitty babies. We have a blind/deaf doggy whom I just could not leave. We did, however, find a lady who has been watching animals for 30 years - and she comes to our home and stays with our boy. First trip in over 7 years for us! Hope you can find somebody wonderful to trust with your babies. =^.^=

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    2. Anne I totally understand. I hate to take a day trip within state for fear of the kitties thinking I abandoned them!
      I feed them and pet them and love on them several times a day - no one else would do that. I also think about what if something happened - car broke down, or accident or something - and I couldn't get right back.
      Seriously at this point in my life my cats are my world.
      I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND!
      Doesn't sound crazy to me at all.

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