Welcome to the Week in Rewind with Midwest Life and Style. Get a cup of coffee, and join me to look back at the weekly happenings here at MWLS. In each recap, I’ll share my most recent posts, favorite finds, and a collection of ideas, tips, and inspiration I have found from other bloggers around the web.
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Week In Rewind With Midwest Life And Style
Happy weekend, friends!
It was a slow (and I do mean slow) week here at MWLS. Even though I didn’t write any new posts, I did round up a few of my favorite oldies, but goodies to share with you.
And, as always, I’ve gathered up some of the best DIYs, recipes, home hacks, and more from several of my blogging friends.
So pour a cup of coffee or tea, get cozy, and let’s catch up with the latest week in rewind.
Tidbits From Home
It’s been about a week and a half since my surgery. The recovery is slow going, to say the least. One day I feel okay (given the circumstances). The next day not so much.
(If you missed the initial post about what led to my surgery, you can read about it HERE.)
Luckily I am blessed with truly wonderful friends, co-workers, and family members. The words of encouragement, food, cards, flowers, and daily check-ins have lifted my spirits more than I can express.
And I would be remiss if I didn’t give a shout-out to my amazing husband and my wonderful girls. Since I have more or less been bed/couch-bound since January 4, Kirk has been running the show solo, while the girls have pitched in with chores when able.
Anyone who is (or has been) a single parent knows how difficult it is. Especially with a schedule like ours. My hats off to you!
Those that know me know that I don’t do sitting still well. Aside from the physical pain, being forced to do nothing has been the most challenging part of the journey thus far.
I am thankful that Kirk and the girls have been patient with me. (Even when I struggle to be patient with myself.) This time is certainly a lesson in grace, and learning to savor living at a slower pace.
My Favorite Finds
This sweatshirt looks super cozy and comes in multiple colors
I ordered 4 of these best-selling pillows to refresh our bedding
If you have a multi-level home this is perfect for helping corral the clutter
This cookware set is beautiful and has great reviews
This has been getting a lot of use during my recovery
Latest Loves on Amazon
Are you tackling decluttering projects around your home? Stop by my Amazon storefront to see all my favorite organization finds rounded up in one place.
This Week On The Blog
Since I wasn’t able to share any new posts this week, I thought I’d throw it back to a few of my favorites.
It has been a while since I made this cheesy shrimp dip. I almost forgot how amazing it is. Yum!
It’s perfect for the upcoming big game or anytime you need a simple appetizer to bring to a party or potluck. I think I need to make some ASAP!
I don’t typically decorate for Valentine’s day, but I still like to add wintry touches around our home until it’s time to bust out the spring decor. And judging by the top posts on my Pinterest boards, many of you are into cozy winter decor, too!
If you need more ideas for the chilly months ahead, check out my tips to style your home for winter, or try making a simple centerpiece with some greenery and candles.
On The Menu This Week
It’s week two of what’s on the menu. Once again this week’s meal plan includes a few pre-made freezer dishes and a dine-out night to celebrate Harper’s ninth birthday.
The Week of January 16 – 20
We don’t do fancy in our house. Just easy, delicious, and family-friendly recipes. If you are stumped with what to make for dinner, I hope these simple recipe ideas help.
- January 16 (Monday) – Dine Out (Birthday Girl’s Choice)
- January 17 (Tuesday) – Meal Train (Chicken Broccoli and Pasta Bake)
- January 18 (Wednesday) – Hamburgers and Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
- January 19 (Thursday) – Taco Pasta Casserole and Side Salad
- January 20 (Friday) – *Tomato Barbecue Chicken with Rice and Steamed Green Beans
*Chicken recipe can be found in my free e-cookbook.
(Current MWLS subscribers, check your inbox for the cookbook found in your initial welcome email)
Coming Next Week To MWLS
Well, the two posts I planned to share this week didn’t quite get done. I’m hopeful I’ll have the energy to get them both wrapped up in the next few days. So how about we try again this week?
Join me on Tuesday for a round-up with some of the best storage and organizing finds. Then stop by later in the week for budget-friendly winter decor ideas.
More Tips, Ideas, And Inspiration From Around The Web
DIY Concrete Candle Holder
I love this simple concrete candle holder from my friend Jen at Tatertots and Jello. It looks so beautiful as a centerpiece on her table.
If you’re looking for an easy and affordable decor DIY, stop by her blog for the full tutorial and give this one a try.
Bakery Style Chocolate Chip Muffins
Chocolate chip muffins are one of my favorite guilty pleasures, so I’m absolutely drooling over this recipe from my friend Heidi at Eleanor Rose Home.
Stop by Heidi’s blog to grab the recipe and read her tips for making the best bakery-style muffins.
Winter Decorating Tips
If you’re still looking for ideas to decorate your home this winter and make it cozy for the season, my friend Wendy at WM Design House is sharing all her tips.
I love the way that Wendy seamlessly blends old decor with new. And I think you’ll love her too! So stop by her blog and tell her that I sent you.
More Ideas To Inspire You
This Valentine’s Day-inspired cloche
This easy crockpot chicken cacciatore recipe
These ideas to host a pink-themed party
This adorable DIY Valentine’s Day pom pom wreath
This recipe for homemade pizza with sourdough crust
Week In Rewind With Midwest Life And Style
As always, thank you for stopping by. I’m thankful for your support, and it means so much that you choose to spend some of your time each week with me here at MWLS.
What inspired you the most? I’d love to know what DIY or recipe was your favorite, so don’t forget to say “hi” and leave a note in the comments below.
Xo,
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Let’s Be Friends!
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Thanks for sharing my cloche, Jen! Hoping to have my own ‘rewind’ soon, and will be delighted to share you, too! Glad you are on the mend!
You are so welcome, Julie. I look forward to reading your recap posts once you get them up and running!
Happy New Year Jen! Glad you are recovering my friend and getting back in the swing of things! I can’t wait for your organizing ideas! And thank you for sharing my chicken cacciatore recipe!!!
Thanks, Nicolle. And you are so welcome. I’m also looking for new dinner recipes and I can’t wait to try your chicken cacciatore!
What a great post Jen. Seriously you need to give yourself some grace. You will be up and about in no time. Let your body heal. I love all of your dinner ideas, they sound delicious. I’ll have to pass this recipes on over to the cook in the house . Lastly, thank you so much for the mention, you are such a kind person.
Thank you, Wendy. The recovery process is a learning curve for sure. Slow and steady seems to be the way to go. I hope your new year is off to a great start!
So many great ideas in this post Jen! Thank you for sharing my chocolate chip muffins, they are my favorite. I hope this coming week has you feeling better. Thinking of you!!!
You are so welcome, Heidi. I can’t wait to try your muffins. They look delish!
I was just praying for you this morning! Hoping the coming week leaves you feeling much better! Thanks so much for sharing my Valentine’s pom pom wreath! 😘🙏🏻
Thank you, Kim. I appreciate the healing prayers. I hope to feel stronger this week. And I love your adorable wreath. Perfect for Valentine’s Day!
Jen –
Thank you for sharing my pizza dough recipe with your readers.
You are so welcome! I’ve never had sourdough crust for my pizza. It sounds delicious and I’m excited to try it!