Susan, Author at The Sparrow's Home

Presidential Quotes for President’s Day

February 20, 2017 by Susan 21 Comments

President’s Day originated in 1885 as a celebration of George Washington’s birthday (February 22). But was moved in 1971 as part of the ‘Uniform Monday Holiday Act.’ (Had you ever heard of that? I hadn’t.)

Several holidays were moved from fixed dates to floating Monday holidays in order to allow for more three day weekends, specifically for federal employees. While the change did not officially combine Washington’s Birthday with Lincoln’s birthday, it become common to celebrate them together, and now all U.S. Presidents are often celebrated on this day.

I was planning to share a quote from each of our Presidents today. But, to be frank, some of them didn’t say much of note. Instead, I’ve gathered some quotes that I found thought provoking, inspiring, or just plain interesting.

I hope you do too.

Food for Thought #15

February 16, 2017 by Susan 2 Comments

Do you ever see a post or article and think, “That’s exactly what I’ve been thinking?!?” It feels oddly satisfying to have someone publish your thoughts. I found a bunch of those this week.

I would love to hear what you think, and see what you’ve had open on your desktop this week.

Here’s what I’ve been reading:

15 Disney Sites the Biggest Disney Fans Follow

February 15, 2017 by Susan 19 Comments

What do you do when you wish you were at Disney World and you’re not? It’s a real problem, folks. I usually hit Pinterest and spend some time perusing what’s new, or thinking about future trip plans. My husband, who is a major gigantic ‘Dis-nerd’ does far more.

He listens to theme park music and podcasts, reads trip reports and watches videos of people we don’t know on their Disney trips (they’re actually travel vloggers, but my way of describing it is way funnier). Whether you’re like me and just want a few good review sites to check out, or want to jump in with both feet like Greg, we’ve gotcha covered.

Chocolate, Chocolate, & More Chocolate Recipes

February 14, 2017 by Susan 8 Comments

A collection of decadent chocolate recipes to satisfy your deepest craving.

Roald Dahl’s descriptions of chocolate in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are sumptuous and delicious. If you, like me, can feel where Augustus Gloop was coming from when he said of Willy Wonka’s chocolate river, “Gosh, I need a bucket to drink it properly.”

Well, you’re in the right place.

Let’s jump in that chocolate river together, ready? Hold your breath, make a wish, count to three.

1, 2, 3…..

Happy Clean Your Computer Day!

February 13, 2017 by Susan 5 Comments

Everyone knows that tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, but did you know that today is Clean Your computer Day? (It’s also Get a Different Name Day, so you can refer to me as Judy for the rest of the day if you don’t mind).

I’ll tell you, tech is not my thing. It has by far been the most difficult part of starting and maintaining a blog. Cars and computers: When they don’t work, my default is to sit down and cry. But just like Valentine’s Day is an annual reminder for guys to show some affection to the lady in their life, let’s take today as a reminder to tidy things up a bit.

Homemade Bath Salts Using Your Empty Essential Oil Bottles

February 8, 2017 by Susan 9 Comments

Homemade bath salts are a frugal way to pamper yourself. I have always enjoyed a hot, relaxing bath but didn’t realize how much until we moved into a house with the worst bathtub in existence. I took exactly one bath in it.

Then, about a year ago, we decided to tear out a creepy, never-once-used shower in our basement bathroom and put in (do you hear the angels singing?) a soaking tub.

I am a simple girl and don’t require a jetted spa tub or anything so fancy. Just give me a nice deep tub that I can ease down into and soak, maybe a few candles, and some sweet music to listen to and I’m all set.

Bubbles are always nice, but not necessary. The real therapy comes in the form of these easy to put together bath salts.