Thrifting for Joy: Affordable Fall Clothing Finds and a Peaceful Day at Jericho Park

Thrifted a New maxi dress with a tag for $4.00

A Cozy and Productive Fall Day | Thrift Haul & Slow Living Moments

Welcome back to Vera’s Slow Living Diaries!

Today’s post is all about finding joy in the simple things — a cozy, productive autumn day filled with little accomplishments, mindful moments, and a touch of frugal fun.

🌻 Affordable Fall Clothing Finds

On my latest outing, I stopped by a local thrift store that was offering 50% off everything. Naturally, I couldn’t resist! I came home with a few beautiful clothing pieces — all for just $36.50.

I love the feeling of giving pre-loved clothes a new home, especially when they fit seamlessly into my simple, comfortable wardrobe. Each piece feels like a small treasure found through patience and intention.

Thrift and Fund Shop In Coquitlam

Giving pre-loved clothes a new home.

🛒 Little Errands, Simple Pleasures

After my thrifting adventure, I picked up my payslip from a recent work day and did my weekly grocery run. I stocked up on fresh fruits and vegetables, always mindful to buy just what I need for the week ahead.

Week stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables

And since it had been quite a while, I treated myself to a $20 haircut — a small luxury that made me feel refreshed and content.

🍂 A Peaceful Afternoon at Jericho Park

To end the day, I visited Jericho Park, one of my favorite spots in Vancouver. The fall colors were absolutely breathtaking — golden leaves, gentle breezes, and quiet reflections by the water.

Train ride to the Thrift Shop In Coquitlam

It’s moments like these that remind me why I love this slower, simpler way of life. Nature has a way of grounding us and bringing perspective to even the busiest days.

Serene Autumn Pathway

Fallen Leaves on an Autumn Walk

Serene park with a wooden bench surrounded by trees with vibrant autumn foliage.

Serene Autumn Pathway leading to a wooden  bridge

A park bench sits quietly under vibrant autumn leaves. 

Cute rabbits are scattered across a grassy area in front of dense foliage

Colorful Autumn Park Landscape

🎥 Watch the Full Video

If you’d like to join me for the full day — from the thrift haul to my peaceful time at the park — you can watch the vlog here:➡️➡️https://youtu.be/0PINEydVRAI?si=htGrVFMPl6zQqQ_v

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

Thrifting for Joy: Affordable Fall Clothing Finds and a Peaceful Day at Jericho Park

Thrifted a New maxi dress with a tag for $4.00

A Cozy and Productive Fall Day | Thrift Haul & Slow Living Moments

Welcome back to Vera’s Slow Living Diaries!

Today’s post is all about finding joy in the simple things — a cozy, productive autumn day filled with little accomplishments, mindful moments, and a touch of frugal fun.

🌻 Affordable Fall Clothing Finds

On my latest outing, I stopped by a local thrift store that was offering 50% off everything. Naturally, I couldn’t resist! I came home with a few beautiful clothing pieces — all for just $36.50.

I love the feeling of giving pre-loved clothes a new home, especially when they fit seamlessly into my simple, comfortable wardrobe. Each piece feels like a small treasure found through patience and intention.

Thrift and Fund Shop In Coquitlam

Giving pre-loved clothes a new home.

🛒 Little Errands, Simple Pleasures

After my thrifting adventure, I picked up my payslip from a recent work day and did my weekly grocery run. I stocked up on fresh fruits and vegetables, always mindful to buy just what I need for the week ahead.

Week stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables

And since it had been quite a while, I treated myself to a $20 haircut — a small luxury that made me feel refreshed and content.

🍂 A Peaceful Afternoon at Jericho Park

To end the day, I visited Jericho Park, one of my favorite spots in Vancouver. The fall colors were absolutely breathtaking — golden leaves, gentle breezes, and quiet reflections by the water.

Train ride to the Thrift Shop In Coquitlam

It’s moments like these that remind me why I love this slower, simpler way of life. Nature has a way of grounding us and bringing perspective to even the busiest days.

Serene Autumn Pathway

Fallen Leaves on an Autumn Walk

Serene park with a wooden bench surrounded by trees with vibrant autumn foliage.

Serene Autumn Pathway leading to a wooden  bridge

A park bench sits quietly under vibrant autumn leaves. 

Cute rabbits are scattered across a grassy area in front of dense foliage

Colorful Autumn Park Landscape

🎥 Watch the Full Video

If you’d like to join me for the full day — from the thrift haul to my peaceful time at the park — you can watch the vlog here:➡️➡️https://youtu.be/0PINEydVRAI?si=htGrVFMPl6zQqQ_v

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

Staying Curious and Connected in Retirement

Tranquil Trout Lake with Autumn Trees

Yesterday, a lovely lady around my age came to collect a few handmade pumpkins I listed on Facebook. We instantly connected and ended up having a wonderful conversation. Like me, she’s retired and enjoys her time at home—but she admitted there are weeks when she doesn’t leave the house at all.

My handmade fabric pumpkins

My handmade lace and fabric pumpkin has been sold

She loves her hobbies but wishes to be more active, and I completely understood that feeling. We both agreed that at our age, with so much time on our hands, it’s important to stay curious, keep learning, remain physically active, and find ways to cope with challenges such as loneliness.

Sadly, we both know people who are struggling with isolation, often abandoned or forgotten by friends and family. It’s heartbreaking, but also a reminder that staying in touch—sending a message, making a call, or simply showing up—matters so much.

Over the years, I’ve also experienced disappointment and distance from some people I cared about. But I’ve learned not to torture myself with why. As the saying goes, “You can take a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.” If genuine kindness or love is missing, there’s not much I can do but continue to live my life with peace and gratitude.

Finding Joy in Everyday Living

Of course, I have my low days too. We all do. But when that feeling creeps in, I remind myself to get out of the house—even for a short walk or a few hours in nature. It always helps me reset my mood and perspective.

Here are some of the things that keep me active, happy, and fulfilled in my retirement:

Cooking at home – preparing rice balls

Cooking at home – preparing my own meals saves money and makes me feel grounded

• Daily routines – keeping my home organized and cozy brings a sense of calm.
• Cooking at home – preparing my own meals saves money and makes me feel grounded.
• Creative hobbies – I love painting, crafting, and making DIY projects that bring both joy and a bit of extra income.
• Getting out twice a week – beyond errands and daily walks, I explore new places or meet someone for a chat.
• Lifelong learning – YouTube is my classroom! I love keeping up with new skills and technology.
• Art and photography – I’m currently uploading my many photos to Fine Art America to sell as prints.
• Content creation – I enjoy filming and sharing my slow-living journey on my YouTube channel and blog.
• Personal care – I’m not a fashionista, but I take pride in my appearance. Even at home, I wear a little makeup, modest jewelry, and comfortable yet nice clothes. After all, what’s the point of keeping beautiful things hidden in the closet or china cabinet?
• Decluttering gently – I’m not a minimalist, but I’m slowly letting go of things I no longer use, embracing the calm simplicity of “quiet luxury.”  

Embracing the calm simplicity of “quiet luxury”

Each step is a step forward

Each step is a step forward, just keep taking them

Keeping my home organized and cozy

Keeping my home organized and cozy brings a sense of calm

Embracing This Season of Life

Retirement is not the end of purpose—it’s the beginning of living more intentionally. By staying curious, nurturing our passions, and reaching out to others, we can fill our days with meaning and joy.

Spending time in Nature

If you’re retired or living alone, I encourage you to do something small each day that lifts your spirit—step outside, create something beautiful, or reconnect with someone you miss.

Thrifted candleholders needed some love.

Thrifted candleholders got some love

Thrifted cutting board in a teapot shape needed some love

Farmhouse cutting board in a teapot shape turned into serving tray 

Using my fabric scraps by making a Teapot Cozy

Work in progress, making a Teapot Cozy

Work in progress, making a Teapot Cozy

Teapot Cozy done!

https://youtu.be/A7iSvzLdLLU?si=mbpq8Q23YdGJhWpV

Beautiful tea serving tray with tea and Madeline cookies

“The line is busy” I love creating surreal art, collages 

Piano, a Birthday present! My Surreal artwork,

Every season of life offers new chances to grow, learn, and shine.

Let’s Shine, grow learn and thrive together!

Let’s Shine, grow learn and thrive together!

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

Staying Curious and Connected in Retirement

Tranquil Trout Lake with Autumn Trees

Yesterday, a lovely lady around my age came to collect a few handmade pumpkins I listed on Facebook. We instantly connected and ended up having a wonderful conversation. Like me, she’s retired and enjoys her time at home—but she admitted there are weeks when she doesn’t leave the house at all.

My handmade fabric pumpkins

My handmade lace and fabric pumpkin has been sold

She loves her hobbies but wishes to be more active, and I completely understood that feeling. We both agreed that at our age, with so much time on our hands, it’s important to stay curious, keep learning, remain physically active, and find ways to cope with challenges such as loneliness.

Sadly, we both know people who are struggling with isolation, often abandoned or forgotten by friends and family. It’s heartbreaking, but also a reminder that staying in touch—sending a message, making a call, or simply showing up—matters so much.

Over the years, I’ve also experienced disappointment and distance from some people I cared about. But I’ve learned not to torture myself with why. As the saying goes, “You can take a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink.” If genuine kindness or love is missing, there’s not much I can do but continue to live my life with peace and gratitude.

Finding Joy in Everyday Living

Of course, I have my low days too. We all do. But when that feeling creeps in, I remind myself to get out of the house—even for a short walk or a few hours in nature. It always helps me reset my mood and perspective.

Here are some of the things that keep me active, happy, and fulfilled in my retirement:

Cooking at home – preparing rice balls

Cooking at home – preparing my own meals saves money and makes me feel grounded

• Daily routines – keeping my home organized and cozy brings a sense of calm.
• Cooking at home – preparing my own meals saves money and makes me feel grounded.
• Creative hobbies – I love painting, crafting, and making DIY projects that bring both joy and a bit of extra income.
• Getting out twice a week – beyond errands and daily walks, I explore new places or meet someone for a chat.
• Lifelong learning – YouTube is my classroom! I love keeping up with new skills and technology.
• Art and photography – I’m currently uploading my many photos to Fine Art America to sell as prints.
• Content creation – I enjoy filming and sharing my slow-living journey on my YouTube channel and blog.
• Personal care – I’m not a fashionista, but I take pride in my appearance. Even at home, I wear a little makeup, modest jewelry, and comfortable yet nice clothes. After all, what’s the point of keeping beautiful things hidden in the closet or china cabinet?
• Decluttering gently – I’m not a minimalist, but I’m slowly letting go of things I no longer use, embracing the calm simplicity of “quiet luxury.”  

Embracing the calm simplicity of “quiet luxury”

Each step is a step forward

Each step is a step forward, just keep taking them

Keeping my home organized and cozy

Keeping my home organized and cozy brings a sense of calm

Embracing This Season of Life

Retirement is not the end of purpose—it’s the beginning of living more intentionally. By staying curious, nurturing our passions, and reaching out to others, we can fill our days with meaning and joy.

Spending time in Nature

If you’re retired or living alone, I encourage you to do something small each day that lifts your spirit—step outside, create something beautiful, or reconnect with someone you miss.

Thrifted candleholders needed some love.

Thrifted candleholders got some love

Thrifted cutting board in a teapot shape needed some love

Farmhouse cutting board in a teapot shape turned into serving tray 

Using my fabric scraps by making a Teapot Cozy

Work in progress, making a Teapot Cozy

Work in progress, making a Teapot Cozy

Teapot Cozy done!

https://youtu.be/A7iSvzLdLLU?si=mbpq8Q23YdGJhWpV

Beautiful tea serving tray with tea and Madeline cookies

“The line is busy” I love creating surreal art, collages 

Piano, a Birthday present! My Surreal artwork,

Every season of life offers new chances to grow, learn, and shine.

Let’s Shine, grow learn and thrive together!

Let’s Shine, grow learn and thrive together!

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

A Cozy Thanksgiving Weekend: Pumpkin Patch Fun & Home Prep for Dinner

Fall pumpkin field at Richmond Country Farms, Richmond BC.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

As the air turns crisp and the leaves paint the streets in warm colors, I want to wish you all a peaceful and joyful Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, good food, and time spent with loved ones.

 Autumn harvest pumpkins at Richmond Country Farms.

This week has been all about family, simple pleasures, and cozy homemaking. My daughter and grandson invited me to join them at the Pumpkin Patch Festival at Country Farms in Richmond, and it was such a lovely experience. The cheerful atmosphere, bright pumpkins, and little moments of laughter reminded me how precious these seasonal traditions truly are.

 Pumpkin Patch at Richmond Country Farms.

 Autumn harvest pumpkins at Richmond Country Farms.

After our autumn adventure, I returned home inspired to get ready for Thanksgiving dinner. I spent the day tidying, organizing, and preparing my home for guests arriving on Monday. Between simmering pots, cozy corners, and the scent of freshly cleaned linens, there’s something deeply comforting about preparing for a special meal.

This time of year always reminds me that joy doesn’t come from perfection or grand plans — it’s found in these simple, mindful moments: a walk among pumpkins, a warm meal shared, and gratitude for the people around us.

Autumn harvest pumpkins at Richmond Country Farms.

Thank you for being part of my journey and supporting my channel. I hope this post brings you a bit of inspiration to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the season.

💛 Wishing you all a warm and happy Thanksgiving!

— Vera

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

A Cozy Thanksgiving Weekend: Pumpkin Patch Fun & Home Prep for Dinner

Fall pumpkin field at Richmond Country Farms, Richmond BC.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

As the air turns crisp and the leaves paint the streets in warm colors, I want to wish you all a peaceful and joyful Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, good food, and time spent with loved ones.

 Autumn harvest pumpkins at Richmond Country Farms.

This week has been all about family, simple pleasures, and cozy homemaking. My daughter and grandson invited me to join them at the Pumpkin Patch Festival at Country Farms in Richmond, and it was such a lovely experience. The cheerful atmosphere, bright pumpkins, and little moments of laughter reminded me how precious these seasonal traditions truly are.

 Pumpkin Patch at Richmond Country Farms.

 Autumn harvest pumpkins at Richmond Country Farms.

After our autumn adventure, I returned home inspired to get ready for Thanksgiving dinner. I spent the day tidying, organizing, and preparing my home for guests arriving on Monday. Between simmering pots, cozy corners, and the scent of freshly cleaned linens, there’s something deeply comforting about preparing for a special meal.

This time of year always reminds me that joy doesn’t come from perfection or grand plans — it’s found in these simple, mindful moments: a walk among pumpkins, a warm meal shared, and gratitude for the people around us.

Autumn harvest pumpkins at Richmond Country Farms.

Thank you for being part of my journey and supporting my channel. I hope this post brings you a bit of inspiration to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the season.

💛 Wishing you all a warm and happy Thanksgiving!

— Vera

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