Find Your Joy… In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s all too easy to get caught up in work, routine activities, and caring for others. Amid that, try not to forget the importance of taking time for yourself to relax, refresh, rejuvenate – and find your joy. Everyone needs an outlet, a way to unwind and do something enjoyable and fulfilling, purely for the love of it. What is it that brings you joy? This week, we encourage you to explore a creative outlet or fun activity that brings you joy. Maybe you try an activity that you’ve always wanted to explore or return to a hobby that you’ve enjoyed in the past. Whether it’s picking up a paintbrush, crocheting a cozy blanket for those cooler nights ahead, or shaping clay into beautiful, functional pieces. Carve out time and let your creativity flow. We have some great projects to look at for inspiration. If you’re more sports minded, find a great trail to ride, hit the golf course, pool, court, field or just go out for an early morning or late afternoon walk. These activities are not only great for your physical health but are also fantastic ways to clear your mind and focus on the moment. For those who find solace in nature, turn off your tech devices and just breathe. Go hiking, fishing or gardening and submurse yourself in the outdoors. Getting your hands dirty and spending time outside is another wonderful outlet. Remember, taking time for yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. These creative and rejuvenating activities provide a necessary break from our daily routines. These activities help us return to our obligations with renewed focus and energy. So go ahead, indulge in something that makes your heart sing and your soul smile – find your joy. Wishing you a wonderfully creative, refreshing and joyful week! and
Projects
Hard Cider Making 101…
As the days grow shorter and the air gets crisper, we reach for those cozy, comforting activities that make Autumn so special. One of our favorites? Making homemade hard cider. Not only is it a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of the season, but it also makes a wonderful holiday gift that’s sure to impress.The process begins with unpasteurized fresh apple cider—there’s nothing quite like the pure, sweet taste of fresh-pressed apples. This unfiltered goodness is the perfect base for our hard cider. The first step is to pour your cider into a clean, sanitized container, leaving a little room at the top. Then, you’ll want to add a packet of yeast. This is where the magic happens! The yeast will start to work its wonders, converting the natural sugars in the cider into alcohol.Now, patience is key. You’ll need to let the cider ferment for about two weeks in a cool, dark place. During this time, the yeast does its job, and the cider begins to take on that wonderful, crisp flavor. After the fermentation is complete, it’s time to add a bit of fresh apple juice. This step adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps to round out the flavor.Finally, it’s time to bottle your cider. Be sure to use clean, sterilized bottles to keep everything fresh and safe. As you cap each bottle, imagine the joy it will bring to friends and family when they receive this thoughtful, homemade gift. It’s a little taste of the season, captured in a bottle.Making hard cider is a satisfying and enjoyable process, perfect for those chilly autumn afternoons. And when you share it with loved ones during the holidays, it’s a gift that’s truly from the heart.