Husky

When Inspiration Strikes

Happy Independence Day to all my U.S. friends out there! Is anyone doing anything special today? We’re having a picnic at our house with family this afternoon and I can’t wait! 

In preparation for our little gathering, I found myself at the grocery store in search of pork ribs to barbecue. First, I had to pass the produce and inspiration struck. 

Strawberries and rhubarb

Whoever put the strawberries and rhubarb together in the produce area of the store is smart!

Jimmy has been asking me to bake a strawberry rhubarb pie for a few weeks now, and what better time to make it than when we’re having guests over to enjoy it with us 🙂

Strawberry rhubarb pie fillingStrawberry rhubarb pie

Pies are definitely a bit of work to put together, but so rewarding when they’re finished.

We’ve been having some hot, dry days here in Pittsburgh, so we’ve been keeping a close eye on our garden and watering it as needed. I don’t think we watered the garden more than twice last year, but this year it seems like we could water it twice a day.

Sadie helped me pick some zucchini and squash. We are patiently awaiting the arrival of the cucumbers. Can’t wait to make pickles

Zucchini and yellow squash from vegetable gardenToddler eating squash from garden

Sadie and Niva spent some time cuddling in the yard yesterday and it was too sweet. These two seem to be best buds and partners in crime.

Yesterday I let Sadie play with my washi tape collection so I could get some housework done and she shared it with Niva… who chewed a few rolls. I was totally okay with sacrificing some washi tape so I could get a bit done, lol. 

Toddler laying with Siberian Husky in grass

Alright, off to bake those pork ribs for our picnic! 

What are you up to today?

Do you like strawberry rhubarb pie?

Getting Back in the Groove

The past few days have been spent catching up and diving back into our normal life after our camping trip. This means laundry, grocery shopping, cooking, mowing, gardening, catching up on real estate work, and cleaning. 

Toddler, husky, and black cat sitting together

These three are happy to be reunited! Malcolm was sunbathing, Sadie was playing with her trucks, Niva was napping, and my flip flop was resting in the middle of the kitchen. All was right with the world 🙂

I’ve been making sure to spend some focused playtime with Sadie amidst all the catching up and busyness. I ordered this arts and crafts book by Abeka (<– affiliate link!) and we had fun making a creation mobile together!

Abeka homeschool nursery arts and crafts book for 18-24 months old

Toddler doing homeschool craft with Abeka homeschool materials and curriculum

I’ve also been shearing our sheep… I mean brushing Niva’s fur… 😉

Husky fur from blowing coat and shedding

Since it’s a new month, we have a new memory verse in the Zottola household. Jimmy chose this month’s memory verse from 1 Peter. 

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. 1 Peter 1:13 (NIV)

Okay, off to get a bit more done around here and maybe do some crafts 🙂