What I Eat in Retirement | Simple, Frugal Meals for Slow Living

Welcome to my kitchen! I thought I’d share a peek at what I eat in a week—simple, frugal, and healthy meals I make at home in retirement. Nothing fancy, just everyday homemade dishes that keep me happy, nourished, and on budget. I love finding joy in these small comforts, and I hope this little food diary inspires you too.

Fried potatoes, onion, scrambled eggs tortilla wrap, cherry tomatoes.

Ramen Soup:instant noodles, ground pork, bok-choy, Enoki mushrooms

Budget friendly meal. Pasta with butter and grated Feta cheese

Fried sliced tomato, 2 eggs, sprinkled with Feta cheese on a fried slice of bread

Simple sushi: cucumber, tuna, mayo, sesame seeds

Freezer meal: my homemade enchilada with shredded turkey and veggies 

Simple salad:carrots, tomato, eggs, lettuce, feta, pickled beetroot

Pearl cous-cous. sote in garlic butter: oyster mushrooms, green beans, carrots and a fried egg.

Fried bread spreaded with mix of butter, grated mozzarella and feta cheese, toped up with carrot salad.

Thank you for stopping by and sharing a little of my table today. These frugal, healthy meals remind me that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—it’s about making the most of what we have and enjoying it slowly. I’d love to know—what are some of your favorite budget-friendly meals?

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

What I Eat in Retirement | Simple, Frugal Meals for Slow Living

Welcome to my kitchen! I thought I’d share a peek at what I eat in a week—simple, frugal, and healthy meals I make at home in retirement. Nothing fancy, just everyday homemade dishes that keep me happy, nourished, and on budget. I love finding joy in these small comforts, and I hope this little food diary inspires you too.

Fried potatoes, onion, scrambled eggs tortilla wrap, cherry tomatoes.

Ramen Soup:instant noodles, ground pork, bok-choy, Enoki mushrooms

Budget friendly meal. Pasta with butter and grated Feta cheese

Fried sliced tomato, 2 eggs, sprinkled with Feta cheese on a fried slice of bread

Simple sushi: cucumber, tuna, mayo, sesame seeds

Freezer meal: my homemade enchilada with shredded turkey and veggies 

Simple salad:carrots, tomato, eggs, lettuce, feta, pickled beetroot

Pearl cous-cous. sote in garlic butter: oyster mushrooms, green beans, carrots and a fried egg.

Fried bread spreaded with mix of butter, grated mozzarella and feta cheese, toped up with carrot salad.

Thank you for stopping by and sharing a little of my table today. These frugal, healthy meals remind me that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive—it’s about making the most of what we have and enjoying it slowly. I’d love to know—what are some of your favorite budget-friendly meals?

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

How I Planned for a Comfortable Retirement

How I Planned for my Retirement

Many people tell me how lucky I am to live in a beautiful part of the world and enjoy a nice retired life. And yes—I agree, I am very grateful. But while luck played a role, much of it was the result of careful planning, discipline, and resilience.

Today, I’d like to share how I prepared for retirement, in hopes that it might inspire you—whether you’re approaching retirement yourself or still decades away.

Learning to Adapt

I’ve always believed in having a backup plan. I’m the type who doesn’t “cry over spilled milk”—instead, I try to find solutions, learn the lesson, and move forward. That mindset helped me through difficult times and guided me toward building a secure future.

Paying Off My Home

I bought my condo in Vancouver, Canada, in 2002. In 2009 I moved to UK and while working in London  I focused on paying off the mortgage as quickly as possible. By 2016, at the age of 58, I was mortgage-free—14 years after taking the loan.

My Million Dollar View, my Nest, my Sanctuary

At that point, I had just £5,000 in savings. I lived very frugally, budgeting every penny, recording all expenses, and avoiding luxuries like eating out or expensive holidays. Instead, I enjoyed free events, museums, and galleries.

Becoming mortgage-free was a turning point. It lifted a huge weight off my shoulders and gave me the freedom to plan the next phase of my life.

Saving With Purpose

My goal was to retire at 65 and return to Canada, where my children lived and where I had a home. I created spreadsheets, tracked every detail, and divided my monthly savings into specific funds, such as:

• Emergency Fund
• Moving & Start-up Expenses
• Car Fund
• Food Fund (3 years of groceries budgeted at $250/month)
• Pantry Fund
• Personal Care
• Travel Fund
• Home Renovations
• Art & Craft Supplies
• Clothing & Essentials
• Holiday & Birthday Funds

Each Fund and every purchase had a purpose. By being disciplined, I eventually reached all my savings goals—and even allowed myself a small wish list of things I might not afford later, such as quality shoes, winter clothes, and new glasses. 

While living in UK and with mortgage being paid off I was taking advantage travelling through UK and Europe before retiring and returning back home. 

Italy on my way to Nice, South of France

Venice

Stunning Budapest 

Celebrated my 60 th Birthday in Israel

Portugal

Preparing My Home

Before moving back to Canada, I prioritized renovating my kitchen—a big project I knew would be hard to do on a pension. I saved $15,000 in a year, found excellent contractors, and completed my dream kitchen in 2017.

Retirement Income

At 62, I applied for my Canadian pension. Though small (since I had arrived in Canada later in life), it covered my condo fees, utilities, taxes, and home insurance. That gave me a safety net and allowed me to keep saving a little more before retirement.

Returning Home

When I finally returned to Canada, I didn’t rush into spending. I haven’t bought a car yet and rely on public transit. I replaced only what was necessary—like my old stove and a 17-year-old laptop.

I embraced a slow, mindful retirement: repurposing what I have, DIY projects, cooking, baking, and decorating my home. My condo has become my sanctuary, and I find joy in daily routines and small pleasures.

DIY project. A thrifted cutting board got a makeover 

Spoiling myself with an afternoon tea and crepes

Preserving candied ginger

I have time and enjoy baking 

Was It Luck or Planning?

Looking back, I realize my retirement life is a combination of both. Luck gave me opportunities, but careful planning, discipline, and resilience turned those opportunities into a secure, happy reality.

I enjoyed my working years and was blessed with wonderful colleagues. But I can honestly say—I love this new chapter even more. Retirement has given me freedom, creativity, and peace.

My Version of Slow Living in Retirement

So I leave you with a question: is a fulfilling retirement built on luck, or on careful planning?

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

How I Planned for a Comfortable Retirement

How I Planned for my Retirement

Many people tell me how lucky I am to live in a beautiful part of the world and enjoy a nice retired life. And yes—I agree, I am very grateful. But while luck played a role, much of it was the result of careful planning, discipline, and resilience.

Today, I’d like to share how I prepared for retirement, in hopes that it might inspire you—whether you’re approaching retirement yourself or still decades away.

Learning to Adapt

I’ve always believed in having a backup plan. I’m the type who doesn’t “cry over spilled milk”—instead, I try to find solutions, learn the lesson, and move forward. That mindset helped me through difficult times and guided me toward building a secure future.

Paying Off My Home

I bought my condo in Vancouver, Canada, in 2002. In 2009 I moved to UK and while working in London  I focused on paying off the mortgage as quickly as possible. By 2016, at the age of 58, I was mortgage-free—14 years after taking the loan.

My Million Dollar View, my Nest, my Sanctuary

At that point, I had just £5,000 in savings. I lived very frugally, budgeting every penny, recording all expenses, and avoiding luxuries like eating out or expensive holidays. Instead, I enjoyed free events, museums, and galleries.

Becoming mortgage-free was a turning point. It lifted a huge weight off my shoulders and gave me the freedom to plan the next phase of my life.

Saving With Purpose

My goal was to retire at 65 and return to Canada, where my children lived and where I had a home. I created spreadsheets, tracked every detail, and divided my monthly savings into specific funds, such as:

• Emergency Fund
• Moving & Start-up Expenses
• Car Fund
• Food Fund (3 years of groceries budgeted at $250/month)
• Pantry Fund
• Personal Care
• Travel Fund
• Home Renovations
• Art & Craft Supplies
• Clothing & Essentials
• Holiday & Birthday Funds

Each Fund and every purchase had a purpose. By being disciplined, I eventually reached all my savings goals—and even allowed myself a small wish list of things I might not afford later, such as quality shoes, winter clothes, and new glasses. 

While living in UK and with mortgage being paid off I was taking advantage travelling through UK and Europe before retiring and returning back home. 

Italy on my way to Nice, South of France

Venice

Stunning Budapest 

Celebrated my 60 th Birthday in Israel

Portugal

Preparing My Home

Before moving back to Canada, I prioritized renovating my kitchen—a big project I knew would be hard to do on a pension. I saved $15,000 in a year, found excellent contractors, and completed my dream kitchen in 2017.

Retirement Income

At 62, I applied for my Canadian pension. Though small (since I had arrived in Canada later in life), it covered my condo fees, utilities, taxes, and home insurance. That gave me a safety net and allowed me to keep saving a little more before retirement.

Returning Home

When I finally returned to Canada, I didn’t rush into spending. I haven’t bought a car yet and rely on public transit. I replaced only what was necessary—like my old stove and a 17-year-old laptop.

I embraced a slow, mindful retirement: repurposing what I have, DIY projects, cooking, baking, and decorating my home. My condo has become my sanctuary, and I find joy in daily routines and small pleasures.

DIY project. A thrifted cutting board got a makeover 

Spoiling myself with an afternoon tea and crepes

Preserving candied ginger

I have time and enjoy baking 

Was It Luck or Planning?

Looking back, I realize my retirement life is a combination of both. Luck gave me opportunities, but careful planning, discipline, and resilience turned those opportunities into a secure, happy reality.

I enjoyed my working years and was blessed with wonderful colleagues. But I can honestly say—I love this new chapter even more. Retirement has given me freedom, creativity, and peace.

My Version of Slow Living in Retirement

So I leave you with a question: is a fulfilling retirement built on luck, or on careful planning?

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Simple & Cozy Early Fall Home Tour | Slow Living Autumn Décor

Welcome back to Vera’s Slow Living Diaries! 

Today, I’m inviting you into my home for a simple and cozy early fall home tour. My space is filled with slow living touches, thrifted décor, and a few handmade DIY projects that make autumn feel warm and inviting.

Cozy, Early Fall Home Tour

Watch YouTube video here:👇👇

https://youtu.be/O3ABU5UpQ2Y?si=FU1nS1-VawZzdOMO

• I used mostly thrifted and handmade items to decorate.
• Seasonal touches include natural textures, warm colors, and cozy lighting.
• My goal is to show how you can create a welcoming home for fall on a budget.

If you enjoy cozy home tours, slow living inspiration, and homemaking on a budget, I’d love for you to subscribe to my YouTube channel where I share a new video every Thursday. 💛

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Simple & Cozy Early Fall Home Tour | Slow Living Autumn Décor

Welcome back to Vera’s Slow Living Diaries! 

Today, I’m inviting you into my home for a simple and cozy early fall home tour. My space is filled with slow living touches, thrifted décor, and a few handmade DIY projects that make autumn feel warm and inviting.

Cozy, Early Fall Home Tour

Watch YouTube video here:👇👇

https://youtu.be/O3ABU5UpQ2Y?si=FU1nS1-VawZzdOMO

• I used mostly thrifted and handmade items to decorate.
• Seasonal touches include natural textures, warm colors, and cozy lighting.
• My goal is to show how you can create a welcoming home for fall on a budget.

If you enjoy cozy home tours, slow living inspiration, and homemaking on a budget, I’d love for you to subscribe to my YouTube channel where I share a new video every Thursday. 💛

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Slow Living Week: DIY Projects, Sunflower Festival & Homemade Apricot Jam

Countryside Moments & DIY projects, YouTube Video

Hello friends, and welcome back to Vera’s Slow Living Diaries!

This past week was filled with creativity, homemaking, and a little countryside adventure. Even under the cloudy skies, the day was beautiful. I worked on simple DIY projects, visited a vibrant sunflower festival, and spent some cozy time in the kitchen making homemade apricot jam, sauerkraut, and preparing tomatoes to freeze for winter meals.

If you enjoy slow living, frugal homemaking, and finding joy in everyday moments, you’ll love this week’s vlog. You can watch the full video here 👇

https://youtu.be/dgMTWlHECow?si=OcTtVNZGCtEj1R4Y

I’d love for you to join me on this journey—new videos come out every Thursday. Subscribe on YouTube so you don’t miss any updates 💛

⬇️⬇️⬇️ 

https://youtube.com/@verasslowlivingdiaries?si=7beGoKrnRsRE_H74

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Slow Living Week: DIY Projects, Sunflower Festival & Homemade Apricot Jam

Countryside Moments & DIY projects, YouTube Video

Hello friends, and welcome back to Vera’s Slow Living Diaries!

This past week was filled with creativity, homemaking, and a little countryside adventure. Even under the cloudy skies, the day was beautiful. I worked on simple DIY projects, visited a vibrant sunflower festival, and spent some cozy time in the kitchen making homemade apricot jam, sauerkraut, and preparing tomatoes to freeze for winter meals.

If you enjoy slow living, frugal homemaking, and finding joy in everyday moments, you’ll love this week’s vlog. You can watch the full video here 👇

https://youtu.be/dgMTWlHECow?si=OcTtVNZGCtEj1R4Y

I’d love for you to join me on this journey—new videos come out every Thursday. Subscribe on YouTube so you don’t miss any updates 💛

⬇️⬇️⬇️ 

https://youtube.com/@verasslowlivingdiaries?si=7beGoKrnRsRE_H74

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Cozy Fall Decorating Ideas & Simple Homemaking Joys

Cozy Fall Decorating Ideas for a Warm Home

🍂 Welcoming Fall. A Little Early, But Who’s Counting?

Some people wait until the calendar officially says September 23rd before they bring out the pumpkins, but not me. After a few rainy days, I couldn’t help myself. Summer décor was packed away, and out came the warm, familiar colors of fall. Suddenly my home felt like it was wearing its favorite knitted sweater — and honestly, so was I.

https://youtu.be/O3ABU5UpQ2Y?si=1ZURkbByM0D1db4I

Cozy Tray,  Fall Decor on a console table in the  Entryway. 

Cozy, Fall Decor on a console table in the  Entryway

Little Fall Vignette in the kitchen 

Cozy Fall decor in the hallway 

Cozy, Autumn decor console table in the Living room

Mix of Fall leaves with dried stems

Cooper shoes and orange leave gives a cozy fall vibes

Cute, handmade pumpkins and acorns coffee table display

There’s something deeply satisfying about the Clear & Reset stage. Once the deep cleaning was done, candles lit, and the cozy corners decorated, I had this delicious sense of calm. In the mornings, I sit with my coffee watching the soft light come in, and in the evenings, it’s tea with that cooler breeze slipping through the window. There’s a little magic in that shift of seasons, isn’t there? A reminder of childhood autumns — crunchy leaves underfoot, the smell of woodsmoke in the air, and that anticipation of school starting (though thankfully, no homework for me these days!).

I also had a very productive pioneer moment in the kitchen. Cabbage turned into sauerkraut (my grandmother would be proud), tomatoes diced and tucked away in the freezer, and a batch of apricot jam bubbling on the stove. Honestly, if I had a gingham apron and a root cellar, I could have starred in one of those nostalgic “homestead living” magazines.

Making my own jam saves me money

I made in total 8 jars to enjoy with pancakes and a cup of coffee.

Homemade sauerkraut for cozy winter meals  

Freezing Chopped tomatoes for soups and stews

Chopped tomatoes for soups and stews ready for the freezer.

Decorating was another kind of adventure. Instead of running to the shops, I went shopping in my own home — digging into my trusty décor bin. (It’s like a lucky dip every year; I never quite remember what’s in there!) A few pieces I knew I wouldn’t use found new homes through Marketplace sales. One person’s “dusty pumpkin” is another’s treasure, right?

My own handmade acorns using plastic eggs

The script on the candleholders “says it All!”

Cozy fall tablescape, will add a tablecloth later

Being on the short side I always have a little stool in the kitchen.

So yes, maybe it’s a little early for fall décor. But after this first week of my gentle break plan, I feel reset, refreshed, and just a little smug about those jars and bags of veggies lined up for winter. Bring on Week Two — I’m ready.

✨ Tell me, friends — do you start decorating for fall early, or do you wait until the calendar insists it’s official? And are you team “preserve everything for winter,” or do you prefer to simply enjoy the moment? I’d love to hear how you’re welcoming this cozy season in your own homes.

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Cozy Fall Decorating Ideas & Simple Homemaking Joys

Cozy Fall Decorating Ideas for a Warm Home

🍂 Welcoming Fall. A Little Early, But Who’s Counting?

Some people wait until the calendar officially says September 23rd before they bring out the pumpkins, but not me. After a few rainy days, I couldn’t help myself. Summer décor was packed away, and out came the warm, familiar colors of fall. Suddenly my home felt like it was wearing its favorite knitted sweater — and honestly, so was I.

https://youtu.be/O3ABU5UpQ2Y?si=1ZURkbByM0D1db4I

Cozy Tray,  Fall Decor on a console table in the  Entryway. 

Cozy, Fall Decor on a console table in the  Entryway

Little Fall Vignette in the kitchen 

Cozy Fall decor in the hallway 

Cozy, Autumn decor console table in the Living room

Mix of Fall leaves with dried stems

Cooper shoes and orange leave gives a cozy fall vibes

Cute, handmade pumpkins and acorns coffee table display

There’s something deeply satisfying about the Clear & Reset stage. Once the deep cleaning was done, candles lit, and the cozy corners decorated, I had this delicious sense of calm. In the mornings, I sit with my coffee watching the soft light come in, and in the evenings, it’s tea with that cooler breeze slipping through the window. There’s a little magic in that shift of seasons, isn’t there? A reminder of childhood autumns — crunchy leaves underfoot, the smell of woodsmoke in the air, and that anticipation of school starting (though thankfully, no homework for me these days!).

I also had a very productive pioneer moment in the kitchen. Cabbage turned into sauerkraut (my grandmother would be proud), tomatoes diced and tucked away in the freezer, and a batch of apricot jam bubbling on the stove. Honestly, if I had a gingham apron and a root cellar, I could have starred in one of those nostalgic “homestead living” magazines.

Making my own jam saves me money

I made in total 8 jars to enjoy with pancakes and a cup of coffee.

Homemade sauerkraut for cozy winter meals  

Freezing Chopped tomatoes for soups and stews

Chopped tomatoes for soups and stews ready for the freezer.

Decorating was another kind of adventure. Instead of running to the shops, I went shopping in my own home — digging into my trusty décor bin. (It’s like a lucky dip every year; I never quite remember what’s in there!) A few pieces I knew I wouldn’t use found new homes through Marketplace sales. One person’s “dusty pumpkin” is another’s treasure, right?

My own handmade acorns using plastic eggs

The script on the candleholders “says it All!”

Cozy fall tablescape, will add a tablecloth later

Being on the short side I always have a little stool in the kitchen.

So yes, maybe it’s a little early for fall décor. But after this first week of my gentle break plan, I feel reset, refreshed, and just a little smug about those jars and bags of veggies lined up for winter. Bring on Week Two — I’m ready.

✨ Tell me, friends — do you start decorating for fall early, or do you wait until the calendar insists it’s official? And are you team “preserve everything for winter,” or do you prefer to simply enjoy the moment? I’d love to hear how you’re welcoming this cozy season in your own homes.

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Pressing Pause on YouTube: A Little Break for a Fresh Season

Hello friends,

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been feeling something I don’t often admit — burnout. Not the dramatic kind where everything comes crashing down, but the slow, steady kind that creeps in when you’ve been running on empty for a little too long.

Between switching my home from summer to fall, finishing several DIY painting projects before the weather turns, and keeping up with my day-to-day life, I’ve found myself stretched too thin. My place needs a proper reset — not just for the season, but for me.

Before. Candle Holders makeover

After. Candle Holders makeover

Before, a large vase makeover

After, a large vase stone effect makeover 

Before, Upcycled canvas makeover 

After, Upcycled canvas makeover 

Before.A thrifted cutting board.

A tea serving tray, just need to attach black handles and legs

                     My place needs a proper reset…

On top of that, my YouTube channel has been going through a slower patch — lower views, a few lost subscribers. I know this happens to every creator, but when you’re already feeling worn down, it can be discouraging. Rather than pushing through and creating videos that feel rushed, I’ve decided to take a break from YouTube for a while.

Why I’m Taking a Break from YouTube

• My home needs attention and care. The seasonal change means putting away summer decor, bringing out the fall coziness, and wrapping up all the paint projects I won’t be able to do in winter.
• My mind needs breathing room. Creativity thrives when we give it space — and right now, I need that space to recharge.
• My channel needs fresh energy. A pause will let me return with better ideas, renewed focus, and genuine enthusiasm.

What’s Next?

Even though I’m stepping back from YouTube for now, I’ll still be posting regularly here on the blog. This will be my little corner to share updates, photos, creative projects, and seasonal inspirations — without the pressure of filming and editing.

My Break Plan (Realistic & Gentle)

Week 1 – Clear & Reset

• Pack away summer decor, bring out fall touches.
• Deep clean main living areas.
• Limit YouTube work to quick comment replies — no filming or editing.

Week 2 – Finish & Rest

• Complete current DIY painting projects.
• Spend one day outdoors enjoying the warm weather.
• No new projects unless quick and joyful.

Week 3 – Inspire & Organize

• Self-Care, reset my Daily, Weekly and Monthly routines.
• Continue Healthy Eating, cooking and Baking.
• Visit my favourite places, gardens, or local markets for inspiration.
• Organize my craft supplies for the cooler months.
• Take casual photos for blog posts.

Week 4 – Reflect & Decide

• Assess how I feel — more energy or still tired?
• If refreshed: plan a gentle return to YouTube.
• If still low: extend the YouTube break another 2–4 weeks while keeping up with blog posts.

So, this isn’t goodbye — it’s just a shift in focus. I’ll be here on the blog, sharing the little things that make life feel cozy and full, while I take the time to slow down and recharge.

Thank you for reading, for your patience, and for supporting me in all the seasons of my creative journey. I’ll see you here soon.

With gratitude,

Vera 🍂

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!

Pressing Pause on YouTube: A Little Break for a Fresh Season

Hello friends,

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been feeling something I don’t often admit — burnout. Not the dramatic kind where everything comes crashing down, but the slow, steady kind that creeps in when you’ve been running on empty for a little too long.

Between switching my home from summer to fall, finishing several DIY painting projects before the weather turns, and keeping up with my day-to-day life, I’ve found myself stretched too thin. My place needs a proper reset — not just for the season, but for me.

Before. Candle Holders makeover

After. Candle Holders makeover

Before, a large vase makeover

After, a large vase stone effect makeover 

Before, Upcycled canvas makeover 

After, Upcycled canvas makeover 

Before.A thrifted cutting board.

A tea serving tray, just need to attach black handles and legs

                     My place needs a proper reset…

On top of that, my YouTube channel has been going through a slower patch — lower views, a few lost subscribers. I know this happens to every creator, but when you’re already feeling worn down, it can be discouraging. Rather than pushing through and creating videos that feel rushed, I’ve decided to take a break from YouTube for a while.

Why I’m Taking a Break from YouTube

• My home needs attention and care. The seasonal change means putting away summer decor, bringing out the fall coziness, and wrapping up all the paint projects I won’t be able to do in winter.
• My mind needs breathing room. Creativity thrives when we give it space — and right now, I need that space to recharge.
• My channel needs fresh energy. A pause will let me return with better ideas, renewed focus, and genuine enthusiasm.

What’s Next?

Even though I’m stepping back from YouTube for now, I’ll still be posting regularly here on the blog. This will be my little corner to share updates, photos, creative projects, and seasonal inspirations — without the pressure of filming and editing.

My Break Plan (Realistic & Gentle)

Week 1 – Clear & Reset

• Pack away summer decor, bring out fall touches.
• Deep clean main living areas.
• Limit YouTube work to quick comment replies — no filming or editing.

Week 2 – Finish & Rest

• Complete current DIY painting projects.
• Spend one day outdoors enjoying the warm weather.
• No new projects unless quick and joyful.

Week 3 – Inspire & Organize

• Self-Care, reset my Daily, Weekly and Monthly routines.
• Continue Healthy Eating, cooking and Baking.
• Visit my favourite places, gardens, or local markets for inspiration.
• Organize my craft supplies for the cooler months.
• Take casual photos for blog posts.

Week 4 – Reflect & Decide

• Assess how I feel — more energy or still tired?
• If refreshed: plan a gentle return to YouTube.
• If still low: extend the YouTube break another 2–4 weeks while keeping up with blog posts.

So, this isn’t goodbye — it’s just a shift in focus. I’ll be here on the blog, sharing the little things that make life feel cozy and full, while I take the time to slow down and recharge.

Thank you for reading, for your patience, and for supporting me in all the seasons of my creative journey. I’ll see you here soon.

With gratitude,

Vera 🍂

This blog may contain a few carefully placed ads between paragraphs to support my work. Thank you for reading and supporting this space!