What I’m Loving–March Edition

I feel like I have neglected Hometown Perch lately. My new job is kind of getting in the way of my blogging time. I have less energy at the end of each day. But it’s a good thing. I am really enjoying my new work adventure.

I’m loving a lot of things right now. Like the almost 70 degree weather we had yesterday. A little glimpse of summer–yes please. Kendall having her first official sleepover where she didn’t call me to pick her up in the middle of the night. Those of you who know Kendall well know this is a little miracle. I was happy and sad at the same time. I don’t like it when my little birdies are out from under my wing. But I know it’s time they learn to fly in ways big and little each day. I tried not to show her the pain on my face when she told me she wanted to have a sleepover at someone else’s house.

Here are some other things that I’m loving right now:

The Farm Chick’s Cheesy Potato Soup

This recipe is so good! Kendall never requests something specific for dinner but she did the other night. She asked if I could make “that potato soup again”. And luckily I had the ingredients. I have adjusted the recipe slightly. The original recipe can be found in The Farm Chicks in the Kitchen.

• 4 tablespoons butter (1/2 stick)
• 4 cups chicken broth (1 32-oz. carton)
• 5 cups peeled and cubed Russet potatoes (about 4 medium, 1/2-inch cube)
• 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk (I use 1%)
• 8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (2 cups)

Make the soup: In a large stockpot combine 1 tablespoon butter, chicken broth, potatoes, bacon, basil, salt and pepper. Heat over medium-high heat. Bring to boil; lower the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender–about 20 minutes.

Make the cheese sauce: Meanwhile, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons butter in a medium-size saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk the milk and cook until slightly thickened–2 minutes. Add the cheese and stir until melted and thoroughly combined. Gradually pour the sauce into the soup and stir until thoroughly blended. Serve.

Dreamy Fireplace Walls

We will most likely be buying a house this summer. And I kind of have my eye on a house that’s for sale. It needs work. So I’ve been pinning images on my board for inspiration. A few of my favorites…

 

 

Beverage Centers

I love these little niches carved out as beverage centers.

 

New Couch

And finally, I’ve been dreaming for a long time about this couch from West Elm. Thursday night our dog Stella chewed a big hole in our couch cushion. I was so mad–but I had to quickly forgive and forget. That just isn’t like her. We’re not sure what got into her that night. But it got me dreaming again about this darling that I want so badly. Isn’t he gorgeous?!

Isn’t spring great?! Everything looks better and brighter. What are you loving lately?